Dengue Outbreak in Northern Italy: Origin and Spread
Author Information
Author(s): Romano Greta, Ferrari Guglielmo, Pitrolo Antonino Maria Guglielmo, Rovida Francesca, Piralla Antonio, Baldanti Fausto, Lorusso Alessio, Charrel Remi N.
Primary Institution: Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, University of Pavia
Hypothesis
What are the molecular dynamics and geographic evolution of DENV type 1 strains during the 2023 outbreak in Northern Italy?
Conclusion
The study suggests that the dengue virus was likely introduced into Northern Italy from South America, followed by local transmission.
Supporting Evidence
- The dengue virus is now present in over 100 countries, affecting nearly half of the world's population.
- Outbreaks of dengue in temperate regions are becoming more common due to the spread of Aedes albopictus mosquitoes.
- The study confirmed a local outbreak in Lombardy with high genetic similarity between strains from patients and mosquitoes.
- Genomic surveillance is critical for monitoring viral spread and evolution in temperate regions.
- The findings emphasize the need for enhanced vector management and real-time genomic monitoring.
Takeaway
This study looks at how dengue virus spread in Northern Italy, showing it likely came from South America and spread locally.
Methodology
The study used a metagenomic approach to analyze samples from patients and mosquitoes, performing phylogenetic and genotype classification.
Limitations
The study is limited by the small sample size and the potential for misclassification of cases as imported rather than autochthonous.
Participant Demographics
Participants included 14 individuals from Lodi province, with ages ranging from 3 to 88 years, and equal gender distribution in the second group.
Statistical Information
Confidence Interval
95% HPD interval: 7.1448 × 10−4–9.3343 × 10−4
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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