Ministry of Health warns of West Nile virus spread in Israel
Following the detection of infected mosquitoes in vast areas from north to south, authorities have issued emergency guidelines to the public after one patient died and others were hospitalized.
The Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Environmental Protection are reporting the detection of mosquitoes infected with the West Nile virus across vast areas of Israel, including the regional councils of Emek Yizrael in the north, Emek Hefer in the center, and Sha'ar HaNegev in the south. These findings indicate the presence of the virus on a national scale, requiring an immediate increase in monitoring and extermination activities.
Since the beginning of the season, 17 patients have been diagnosed in Israel; one person has died due to complications, and another remains hospitalized. Most patients suffered from characteristic symptoms, including high fever, rash, and changes in consciousness. Authorities are conducting comprehensive epidemiological investigations to locate exposure sites and have instructed local authorities to expand prevention and awareness efforts immediately.
Professor Sigal Sadetsky, head of the Public Health Division at the Ministry of Health, explains that the disease is transmitted to humans through the bite of mosquitoes that feed on infected birds. Although the disease is often mild or asymptomatic, it can occasionally develop into encephalitis or meningitis. The risk of serious complications is particularly high among those aged 60 and over and individuals with underlying health conditions. Dr. Shay Reichert, director of the Pest and Extermination Division at the Ministry of Environmental Protection, emphasizes that the ministry has issued emergency guidelines for local authorities to take extensive action without delay.
To reduce the risk of infection, authorities are calling on the public to take active preventive measures and drain standing water sources such as buckets, flower pot saucers, old tires, and ornamental ponds. It is recommended to use approved mosquito repellents containing DEET, install window screens, wear long, light-colored clothing, and use fans. Reporting mosquito hazards to the local 106 hotline in real-time is a critical component that allows authorities to focus their response quickly and effectively.
