Health Ministry Issues Rabies Warning After Infected Jackal Found in Upper Galilee
The Ministry of Health has issued an urgent warning after a rabid jackal was detected in Ma'ayan Baruch in the Upper Galilee. Anyone exposed to stray animals in the area between August 20 and September 3 is urged to seek medical evaluation.
The Ministry of Health issued an urgent public warning on September 7, 2026, following the detection of a rabid jackal in the community of Ma'ayan Baruch in the Upper Galilee. While the epidemiological investigation is ongoing and no direct human contact has been confirmed yet, health officials are urging the public to maintain maximum vigilance.
Following the discovery, the Ministry of Health calls on anyone who was in contact, or whose pets came into contact, with the infected animal or any stray animal in the Ma'ayan Baruch area between August 20, 2026, and September 3, 2026, inclusive, to urgently contact the Safed Health Office at 04-6994257 or 04-6994200, or their nearest local health bureau, to assess the need for preventive treatment. After working hours and during weekends, individuals should go directly to a hospital emergency room.
Furthermore, the Ministry of Health appeals to parents to immediately check with their children whether they have had any contact with suspicious animals. Pet owners are also urged to contact their municipal veterinarian to verify their pets' vaccination status. Officials emphasized the importance of sharing this information with travelers and vacationers staying in the community and the surrounding region.
In any case of an animal bite or scratch, the Ministry of Health reminds the public to immediately wash the affected area with running water and soap, disinfect it, and proceed without delay to a health bureau to determine if rabies preventive treatment is required.
