Mosquito alert: expert protection guide
Italy faces a growing mosquito crisis, with a 41% surge in populations compared to previous years. In fact 65% of Italians now fear not just itchy bites but serious diseases like Dengue, Chikungunya, and West Nile Virus – once considered tropical threats.
Mosquito: the expert warning
Professor Spinello Antinori, renowned infectious disease specialist at the University of Milan and Sacco Hospital, states:
“Mosquitoes have become a genuine public health hazard. Climate change has brought formerly exotic diseases to our doorstep, with confirmed local transmissions increasing yearly.”
Key findings from SC Johnson’s 2025 study
Surveying 1,200 Italians (ages 20-50) reveals:
- 58% lose sleep to mosquito disturbances
- 65% report highest anxiety in vacation areas
- 54% encounter mosquitoes in urban homes
- Only 49% understand disease transmission risks
Top Italian defense strategies
- Mosquito nets (72% usage)
- Skin repellents like Autan® (67%)
- Plug-in vaporizers (55%)
- Professional pest control (44%)
5 Essential protection tips
- Eliminate standing water (flower pots, gutters)
- Apply certified repellents (DEET/Icaridina-based)
- Install window screens
- Wear light, covering clothing
- Consult pharmacists/doctors for travel advice
With rising temperatures extending mosquito activity from March through October, proactive measures are crucial.
Take action now:
Explore Autan®’s complete protection range at autan.it
EXCLUSIVE: Interview with Prof. Spinello Antinori
Chair of Infectious Diseases, University of Milan
Director, Infectious Diseases Unit – ASST Fatebenefratelli Sacco
Q: How has Italy’s mosquito situation evolved?
A: Our data shows Italians now recognize mosquitoes aren’t just summer pests. Their activity spans March-November, with spring/fall peaks becoming dangerous.
Q: Highest risk areas?
*A: While 65% fear vacation spots, the real threat is urban tiger mosquitoes – 54% report home infestations.*
Q: Disease awareness levels?
A: Only 49% grasp transmission risks. Alarmingly, 68% seek online info rather than medical advice.
Q: Travel vs. domestic concerns?
A: 46% fear tropical mosquitoes abroad, but 37% underestimate home risks. This gap is shrinking with climate change.
Q: Most effective protections?
*A: Beyond nets (72%) and repellents (67%), eliminating standing water is critical. I recommend EPA-approved formulas with clear active ingredient percentages.*
Q: How to improve prevention?
A: 82% demand better public campaigns. We need partnerships between health authorities and industry leaders like SC Johnson.
Final advice:
- Destroy breeding sites weekly
- Use lab-tested repellents before outdoor activities
- Consult travel medicine specialists for destination-specific guidance
- Consider antimalarials/vaccinations (e.g., Dengue) when visiting endemic zones
