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Abstract: This study investigates the limited perception of the climate crisis as a health emergency among media professionals in Italy. Drawing on a quantitative survey conducted with a random sample of 548 journalists, the research analyses how the media shape public awareness of the links between climate change and health. Findings reveal that the vast majority of journalists underestimate or deny the correlation between environmental degradation and human health, with only 38.6% acknowledging climate change as a significant or imminent health threat. By integrating theories of media effects the study demonstrates that mass media remain decisive agents in constructing social representations of climate change. The results highlight the urgent need for more competent science communication and for freeing journalism from the economic and ideological constraints imposed by the most polluting industries.