Epidemiology

According to the ministry's spokesperson, since the beginning of the West Nile fever activity season to date, 17 patients have been diagnosed, one of whom is still hospitalized and one has passed away. It is now reported that infected mosquitoes have been detected in Petah Tikva, Kafr Qasim, and Ben Gurion Airport.

Mosquitoes carrying the West Nile virus have been detected in Israel for the first time this year. Since the beginning of the year, six people have already been diagnosed with the disease in the country.

The Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Environmental Protection have identified the first mosquitoes of the year carrying the West Nile virus in the Tamar Regional Council. Authorities are intensifying monitoring and pest control, urging the public to eliminate standing water and take protective measures.