A mosquito species that spreads malaria has returned to southern Italy, more than 50 years after the country was declared free of the disease.
The discovery of a population of Anopheles sacharovi, considered one of the most efficient carriers of malaria, in six sites in Puglia — the heel of Italy — shows there is an increased risk of the disease itself being reintroduced, scientists said. It is thought likely that the mosquito has been able to re-establish itself thanks to the rewilding of its historic habitats, as well as rising temperatures. Researchers said, however, that tourists should not be unduly fearful. Populations of the same species in Greece have not led to a return of malaria.
Malaria was a significant killer in Italy
