Italy, with its temperate climate and rich biodiversity, is facing increasingly relevant challenges in the field of vector-borne diseases. Over the last decades, the country has witnessed a rise in the incidence and spread of diseases previously rare or entirely absent in the national territory, caused by pathogens carried by mosquitoes, ticks, and other biological vectors.

These diseases represent a growing concern for public health, as they can have serious consequences on human health and the national healthcare system. The complex interaction between environmental changes, human mobility, insecticide and drug resistance, and contact with wildlife contributes to the spread and emergence of these diseases in new geographical areas.

Among the emerging vector-borne diseases, there are several significant examples. The Chikungunya virus, originally confined to tropical regions, has emerged in the country, leading to localized epidemic outbreaks. Dengue fever and Zika, transmitted by the same Aedes genus mosquitoes, have also become a growing concern, with cases reported in various Italian regions.

In this context, it is crucial to adopt an integrated approach to address emerging vector-borne diseases in Italy. This includes effective surveillance strategies, vector control programs, community education and awareness, as well as investments in research and development of vaccines and innovative therapies.

Collaborations established with the universities of Debre Markos, Jimma, the universities of Tbilisi (Tbilisi State Medical University and Petre Shotadze Tbilisi Medical Academy), and the Entomology group of the University of Molise have given a significant boost to the project.

Tbilisi State Medical University (TSMU) is an institution of great significance, both for its long history and its reputation in the field of high-level medical education. Its longstanding presence and prominent role as a center of excellence in medical education in Georgia highlight its authority and its ability to train competent graduates who contribute to healthcare not only locally but also internationally.

Tbilisi Medical Academy (TMA) was founded in 1992 by Georgian physician and pediatric surgeon, Petre Shotadze. Since its establishment, TMA has grown to have over 1500 graduates who work successfully in major Georgian and international hospitals, universities, and scientific centers. In response to the ever-evolving medical field and modern challenges, TMA is committed to consolidating its position on both the national and global educational map through the promotion of academic excellence and critical thinking.

Debre Markos University (DMU) was established in 2005 in the northwestern part of Ethiopia, in the city of Debre Markos. Currently, it has a faculty of 1500 members distributed in 10 colleges and 51 departments. During the academic year 2019, it surpassed 38,000 enrolled students, distributed in 53 undergraduate programs, 43 master’s programs, and 2 doctoral programs. DMU has established numerous international collaborations, including partners in Europe such as Austria, Germany, Italy, and Poland.

Jimma University was founded in 1999 through the merger of Jimma College of Agriculture and Jimma Institute of Health Sciences. Located in the city of Jimma, 350 km southwest of the capital Addis Ababa, JU boasts over 2000 academic staff distributed in 8 colleges, 3 institutes, and six research centers equipped with modern laboratory facilities. Currently, the university hosts more than 42,000 enrolled students in 70 undergraduate programs, 180 master’s programs, and 40 doctoral programs. JU has established various collaborations with European universities, including Belgium, Denmark, Germany, Norway, and Sweden, as well as numerous American and African academic institutions.

References

• Ganassi, Sonia, et al. “The new invasive mosquito species Aedes koreicus as vector-borne diseases in the European area, a focus on Italian region: What we know from the scientific literature.” Frontiers in Microbiology 13 (2022): 931994.
• Minwuyelet A, Petronio GP, Yewhalaw D, Sciarretta A, Magnifico I, Nicolosi D, Di Marco R, Atenafu G. Symbiotic Wolbachia in mosquitoes and its role in reducing the transmission of mosquito-borne diseases: updates and prospects. Front Microbiol. 2023 Oct 13;14:1267832. doi: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1267832. PMID: 37901801; PMCID: PMC10612335.
• Oberlin AM, Wylie BJ. Vector-borne disease, climate change and perinatal health. Semin Perinatol. 2023 Dec;47(8):151841. doi: 10.1016/j.semperi.2023.151841. Epub 2023 Oct 11. PMID: 37852894.