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Europe

Italy Travel Health

Reviewed by Alexander Webber, Chief Epidemiologist · Updated 2026-08

Italy is a low-risk travel destination with a well-developed public health system and strict EU food safety standards. Travelers should be aware of West Nile virus activity in the Po Valley and northern regions, where cases in humans are reported annually during summer. Dengue fever has caused small outbreaks linked to local Aedes albopictus transmission in northern and central Italy. Extreme summer heat, particularly in southern Italy, Sicily, and Sardinia, is an increasing risk.

Food Safety: Low Risk Tap Water: Safe Malaria Risk Present

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Vaccines for Italy

CDC Recommended

  • Hepatitis A
  • Hepatitis B
  • Routine vaccinations (MMR, Tdap, varicella, flu)

Source: CDC Travelers' Health — Italy

Malaria Risk

No malaria transmission in Italy.

Food and Water Safety

Low Risk Tap water: safe

Tap water is safe to drink in most of Italy, though some rural areas and islands may advise against it (look for 'acqua non potabile' signs). Food safety is high and governed by EU regulations. Raw shellfish can carry hepatitis A or norovirus risk if consumed at low-quality establishments.

Key Health Tips for Italy

  • West Nile virus is active in the Po Valley and Veneto regions each summer. Use DEET-based repellent, wear long sleeves at dusk and dawn, and eliminate standing water around accommodations.
  • Tick-borne encephalitis is present in alpine and pre-alpine areas; hikers in Trentino-Alto Adige, Friuli, and Valle d'Aosta should use tick repellent and check for ticks daily.
  • Heat-related illness is a major risk in July and August throughout the south, Sicily, and Sardinia. Stay well hydrated and avoid outdoor exertion between noon and 4 PM.
  • UV radiation is intense across Italy in summer, particularly at altitude and on the coast. Use SPF 30 or higher sunscreen and quality sunglasses.

Disease Risks in Italy

Official Resources

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