Ministry of Health Issues Rabies Warning After Infected Jackal Found

The Ministry of Health issued a severe public warning on Friday regarding a jackal infected with rabies at Kibbutz Beit Alfa in the Gilboa Regional Council. According to the ministry, the infected animal was located on Thursday along the Nahal Harod scenic route, parallel to the fish ponds of Kibbutz Beit Alfa.

At this stage, no exposures of individuals to the jackal have been identified, and the epidemiological investigation is ongoing. The ministry urged anyone who, or whose pet, may have come into contact with the infected animal or a stray animal in the area between September 24 and October 7, 2026, to contact their local health bureau immediately.

Parents whose children visited the area are asked to verify whether their children encountered the jackal or stray animals. Pet owners whose animals might have been exposed should contact the municipal veterinarian for guidance.

The ministry reminded the public that in the event of an animal bite or scratch, the affected area must be washed immediately with running water and soap for 10 minutes, disinfected, and evaluated at a health bureau for preventive rabies treatment without needing an appointment.