Fourteen confirmed cases of chikungunya virus have recently been diagnosed in Italy, six of which appeared in Rome with another eight appearing in the coastal region of Anzio, according to a recently published report from the World Health Organization (WHO).
The first case was identified on Aug. 5 while the onset of the most recent cases appeared between Aug. 25 and Sept. 7. According to the WHO, additional cases are being investigated.
As described in the Italian National Chikungunya Surveillance and Response Plan, public health authorities are currently implementing disinfestation and vector control measures in both the Anzio and Rome areas and communicating to the public information on chikungunya and how to prevent mosquito bites.
Despite the implementation of disease control measures, WHO said a risk for further transmission remains due to Aedes albopictus-species mosquito populations being established throughout the Mediterranean and the highly populated and touristic nature of the affected areas.
First appearing in Europe in 2007, chikungunya virus was previously only seen in African, Asia, the Americas, and the Indian subcontinent. During the initial outbreak, a total of 217 laboratory confirmed cases appeared in the northeastern Italy region.
Chikungunya is a viral disease that causes symptoms including fever, headache, joint swelling, fatigue, and rashes. Due to symptom similarities, it is often misdiagnosed with more serious conditions, such as dengue fever and Zika virus. According to the WHO, approximately one million cases appear each year worldwide.