Posted by Danger on vacation? All information for travelers
The tiger mosquito (Aedes albopictus) has spread across many parts of Europe in recent decades – and Italy is heavily affected. Especially for vacationers who want to enjoy the sun, the sea, and the beautiful cities of Italy, the question arises: How dangerous is the tiger mosquito in Italy really?
In this article, you will learn everything you need to know: from the origin and spread of the tiger mosquito in Italy to possible health risks and practical tips on protection against bites.
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Origin and immigration to Italy
The tiger mosquito originally comes from Southeast Asia. Through international trade in used car tires and plants, it reached Europe in the 1990s.
Italy was one of the first countries where it established itself permanently. The warm climate, many water sources, and dense population offered the mosquito ideal conditions.
Today, Italy is considered one of the most affected countries in Europe. From Northern Italy to Sicily, the tiger mosquito is now widespread.
Spread in Italy: Where do you encounter the tiger mosquito?
The tiger mosquito spreads mainly in warm and humid regions.
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Northern Italy: Particularly affected are the regions Emilia-Romagna, Veneto, Lombardy, and Piedmont. Disease outbreaks have already occurred here.
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Central Italy: There are also numerous tiger mosquitoes in Rome, Florence, and on the Tuscan coast.
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Southern Italy: Naples, Apulia, Calabria, and Sicily also report high populations.
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Vacation islands: Even in Sardinia and Elba, tiger mosquitoes are regularly detected.
Tip: In big cities such as Rome, Milan, or Bologna, tiger mosquitoes are particularly active because they find ideal breeding grounds in small accumulations of water (flower pots, gutters, fountains).
When is the tiger mosquito active?
The tiger mosquito is a daytime mosquito – unlike the native mosquito, it also bites in broad daylight. It is particularly active:
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in the morning (early forenoon)
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late afternoon to evening
The main season in Italy is from May to October, with populations peaking in midsummer.
Why is the tiger mosquito dangerous?
The special thing about the tiger mosquito is not only its aggressive biting behavior but above all its ability to transmit dangerous viruses.
The diseases it can theoretically spread in Italy include:
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Chikungunya fever – already occurred in Italy (2007 in Emilia-Romagna, 2017 in Rome & Lazio)
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Dengue fever – isolated cases, mostly imported, but local transmissions possible
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Zika virus – not yet spread in Italy, but potentially possible
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West Nile virus – particularly an issue in northern Italy
Important: The risk exists but is still significantly lower than in tropical countries. Nevertheless, Italian health authorities monitor the situation very closely.
Tiger mosquito bites: Symptoms and reactions
The bites of the tiger mosquito are often particularly annoying. Many people report:
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more intense itching than normal mosquito bites
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large red swellings
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longer healing time
In sensitive individuals, allergies or stronger skin reactions can also occur.
| Animals & Nature in Italy | |
|---|---|
| Snakes in Italy | Sharks in Italy |
| Tiger Mosquito in Italy | Bears in Italy |
| Weever Fish in Italy | Jellyfish in Italy |
| Ticks in Italy | |