Are you planning a trip to Italy? Then you’re probably looking forward to soaking up the sunshine, enjoying delicious food, and exploring beautiful cities and countryside. But one thing that could potentially dampen your Italian adventure is the dreaded mosquito!
Don’t worry! We’re here to help you prepare for the little critters and avoid those itchy bites.
Where Are The Mosquitoes?
Italy, like many other countries, has its fair share of mosquitoes. While they don’t typically carry diseases like malaria, they can be a real nuisance, especially during the warmer months.
You might encounter mosquitoes just about anywhere in Italy: from bustling city centers to tranquil beaches. They are most active from April to October and can be found in humid areas, near water bodies, and even in your hotel room!
Let’s explore some specific areas where mosquitoes are more common:
Major Cities
Rome, Venice, and Florence are all susceptible to mosquito infestations. Rome’s outskirts and parks are prime mosquito territory, while Venice’s high humidity makes it a breeding ground. Florence, too, isn’t exempt from these pesky insects.
Popular Destinations
Parma, Sardinia, Sicily, Puglia, and Emilia-Romagna are all known to have mosquito populations, especially near beaches, lakes, and ponds. The “tiger” mosquitoes, with their distinctive black and white stripes, are particularly prevalent in these regions.
The Countryside
Tuscany, Veneto, Piedmont, Lombardy, and the Pianura Padana plain are areas where you’re more likely to encounter mosquitoes than others. Especially in 2023, Tuscany and Emilia-Romagna have experienced a surge in Asian tiger mosquito activity.
Even in southern regions like Puglia and Calabria, mosquito infestations are common in the countryside.
Mountains & High Altitudes
The northern region of Trentino-Alto Adige, especially in the cities and warmer areas, may also have mosquitoes. Trento might have a higher mosquito population than Bolzano or Bressanone. But good news: mosquitoes become rarer as you venture higher in the Dolomites and other mountainous regions.
Our Tips To Avoid Mosquito Bites
We’ve learned a thing or two about mosquito avoidance after countless summers in Italy! Here are our best tips:
Repellents
Mosquito repellents are your best friend! Autan is a popular choice, and we recommend using it even on kids (with appropriate formulations). While natural remedies like neem oil, citronella, and lavender might help, they’re not always foolproof.
Clothing
Cover up! Wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants can help protect you from bites, especially during the evenings.
Mosquito Nets
If you’re camping or staying in a rural area, a mosquito net is an essential item for sleeping.
Air Conditioning
Switch on the A/C! It helps keep mosquitoes at bay, even if there are a few in the room. It makes them less aggressive, and you can easily swat them away. Choose hotels with air conditioning for a more comfortable stay.
Indoors
Indoors is generally safer! Mosquitoes are less common in hotels, cafes, restaurants, churches, and museums.
What To Do If You Get Bitten
Despite your best efforts, you might still get bitten. Here’s what to do:
Over-the-Counter Creams
Seek relief with over-the-counter creams! Hydrocortisone or calamine creams are readily available in pharmacies, and they help soothe the bite and alleviate itching.
Don’t Scratch!
It’s tempting, but resist the urge! Scratching can break the skin, leading to infection and prolonging the discomfort.
Natural Remedies
Try some natural remedies! Aloe vera gel, diluted apple cider vinegar, or tea tree oil can help soothe bites. We’ve found that wet alum rock also provides relief.
Remember: Always patch-test any new remedies on a small area of your skin to ensure no allergic reaction occurs.
With a little preparation and awareness, you can enjoy your Italian adventure without being plagued by mosquitoes. Remember to stay calm, be prepared, and embrace the beauty of Italy!
