Ministry of Health: Concern over rising rabies cases in Israel

The Ministry of Health has issued a warning regarding a sharp and persistent increase in rabies cases across Israel, following a 252% surge in diagnosed animals over recent years. Since the beginning of the year, 63 cases have been confirmed, and officials estimate that if the current trend continues, the annual total could reach approximately 150—the highest figure in recent history. Furthermore, there is growing concern regarding a projected increase in 2027.

According to Prof. Sigal Sadetzki, head of the Public Health Division at the Ministry of Health, the disease's transmission patterns have shifted in a worrying direction:

"There is a very concerning rise in rabies among wild animals. The disease is no longer confined to the northern regions; its hotspots have expanded into the Sharon and central areas. Simultaneously, we are seeing a shift in morbidity from jackals and wild animals to domestic dogs, which significantly increases the risk of human exposure. About 60% of cases involve jackals and foxes."

Prof. Sadetzki urged the public to stop feeding wild animals, noting that increased human-wildlife interaction is a primary driver of the spread. Jackals and other animals are increasingly entering residential neighborhoods in search of food, drawn by accessible waste and intentional feeding points.

"It used to be rare to see a jackal in Tel Aviv. Today, they are seen in yards and streets, feeding from bins and feeding stations. We strongly urge the public not to do this. It brings wild animals into our living spaces, carrying diseases they might transmit, including rabies. Without public cooperation, we will not be able to manage this problem," she stated.

The Ministry of Health also warned against adopting dogs without verifying their health status. Over the past year, several instances occurred where infected dogs were transported between different regions, leading to the exposure of dozens of people. Prof. Sadetzki emphasized that informed adoption is critical: potential owners must ensure that any dog has been examined by a veterinarian, vaccinated as required, and has undergone all necessary health procedures.

Recent months have seen a series of cases illustrating the disease's spread into central Israel:

• A puppy smuggled from Ramallah to a foster home in Holon was diagnosed with rabies.

• An infected dog was located in a central park in Modiin.

• Another case was confirmed near the Nachshon junction in the Mateh Yehuda Regional Council after the animal came into contact with passersby and emergency personnel.

• A dog smuggled from Syria by a soldier was found to be infected after biting family members.