Britons travelling to Italy given health warning as potentially life-threatening illness spreads

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Holidaymakers have been warned when visiting Italy

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Sarra Gray

By Sarra Gray


Published: 29/10/2023

- 07:00

Holidaymakers heading to Italy should be aware of a potentially dangerous illness

Travel guidance has been updated for those travelling to Italy.

Britons in the country should be cautious of potential health risks.


The UK Government has updated advice following several cases of dengue fever.

This illness can vary in symptoms. Some will experience nothing at all, while others will experience rashes, vomiting, headaches and high fever.

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Britons should beware of potentially deadly illnesses

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It can result in internal bleeding or even death in rare, extreme cases.

The FCO states: "There have been cases of the mosquito-borne disease, dengue fever, in Italy.

"You should take appropriate precautions to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes."

Cases were also found in France and Britons were warned to be careful when heading there.

The FCO has a warning for other illnesses that people are at risk of when visiting Italy, such as altitude sickness.

It added: "Altitude sickness is a risk in parts of Italy, including the Alps and the Dolomites.

"More information about altitude sickness is available from TravelHealthPro."

Holidaymakers should make sure they are up-to-date with any vaccines they might need.

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The UK Government shared the warning

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It continued: "At least eight weeks before your trip check the latest information on vaccination recommendations and health risks in TravelHealthPro’s Italy guide.

"[And] where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page."

This comes as Britons in Croatia were given a travel warning as they face new checks.

Holidaymakers should be prepared if entering through the Slovenian border.

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