Italy is currently facing simultaneous outbreaks of two significant mosquito-borne diseases: West Nile virus (WNV) and chikungunya virus (CHIKV). Travelers to Italy should be aware of both threats and take comprehensive insect precautions.
West Nile Virus Outbreak
According to Italy’s Ministry of Health, as of early October 2025, Italy has reported 718 confirmed cases of West Nile virus, including 49 fatalities. More than 70 confirmed cases per week have been reported since mid-August 2025, representing a 2-fold increase over average incidence. The outbreak has now peaked.
Most affected regions:
– Lazio: 252 cases
– Campania: 124 cases
– Veneto: 91 cases
– Cases reported across most other regions
Keep in Mind:
– One clinical case of WNV often represents 10 or more asymptomatic infections in the population
– WNV-transmitting mosquitoes are generally night biters with peak activity at dusk and dawn
– Most infections are asymptomatic, but about 1 in 5 people develop fever, headache, body aches, and other flu-like symptoms
– Severe neurological illness occurs in less than 1% of cases but can be serious, particularly in older adults
Chikungunya Virus Outbreak
According to the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) and Italy’s National Institute of Health, Italy is among six countries globally experiencing above-average chikungunya incidence in 2025. As of early October 2025, 364 cases have been registered with the outbreak appearing to have peaked.
Most affected regions:
– Emilia-Romagna
– Veneto
This is part of a larger global surge. According to ECDC, PAHO, WHO, and international health authorities, between January 1 and September 30, 2025, approximately 445,271 suspected and confirmed chikungunya cases (including 155 deaths) were reported across 40 countries/territories worldwide. Local transmission has been confirmed in multiple European locations, including both France and Italy.
Keep in Mind:
– Chikungunya-transmitting mosquitoes can bite throughout the day
– Peak mosquito activity occurs in the early morning, late afternoon, and evening
– Symptoms typically include sudden onset of fever and severe joint pain, often accompanied by muscle pain, headache, nausea, fatigue, and rash
– Joint pain can persist for weeks or months in some cases
Vaccination and Prevention
VIMKUNYA™ Chikungunya Vaccination recommended for travelers aged ≥ 12 years going to Italy or affected areas.
All travelers should observe strict insect precautions:
– Use EPA-registered insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus
– Wear long sleeves and pants, especially during high-risk hours (dawn/dusk for WNV; early morning, late afternoon, and evening for chikungunya)
– Stay in accommodations with air conditioning or window screens
– Use mosquito nets if sleeping in areas without screens
– Apply permethrin to clothing and gear for added protection
– Be vigilant throughout the entire day and night, as different mosquito species are active at different times
Given the overlap of both diseases and their different mosquito activity patterns, consistent all-day and all-night mosquito protection is essential for travelers to Italy.
Learn more about travel health risks on our website.
References:
Italian National Institute of Health (ISS). West Nile Virus Surveillance.
European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). West Nile virus surveillance, October 2025.
European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC). West Nile fever surveillance.
ECDC. Chikungunya seasonal surveillance 2025.
ECDC. Chikungunya worldwide overview.
PAHO/WHO. Global Chikungunya Surveillance, September 2025.
