Italy on High Alert: Dengue Fever Surge

Italian scientists are raising concerns about a sharp increase in dengue fever cases in the central Marche region due to high temperatures. Over 500 cases have been recorded this year, with a cluster in Fano seeing more than 100 confirmed cases. Doctors fear the actual number may be higher due to unreported asymptomatic cases.

Italian scientists are raising alarms about a significant increase in dengue fever cases in the central Marche region, spurred by high temperatures.

Dengue fever, often called 'break-bone fever' for its severe pain, is transmitted by specific mosquitoes and is causing growing concern as it spreads to southern Europe. Italy has reported over 500 cases this year, according to the National Health Institute.

A notable cluster in the town of Fano has recorded more than 100 confirmed cases since mid-August, with 35 requiring hospitalization. Lombardy was the hardest-hit region last year but reported fewer than 80 cases. Although there have been no deaths this year, virology experts warn that many asymptomatic cases may go unreported, suggesting the situation could be worse than official figures suggest.

(With inputs from agencies.)