Daily Reports
West Nile Fever Cases Surge in Israel
The Ministry of Health has updated that so far, 81 people have been diagnosed with West Nile fever in Israel, with 64 of them requiring hospitalization. Unfortunately, seven individuals have succumbed to the virus. The majority of the patients are from the central region of the country.
Symptoms and Transmission
Approximately 80% of those infected with West Nile fever do not develop any symptoms. For the 20% who do, symptoms can range from mild to severe, including fever, general malaise, headaches, or generalized body aches. Neurological complications occur in less than 1% of the infected population. It is crucial to note that the virus does not transmit from person to person, nor can it pass back from person to mosquito.
Preventative Measures and Government Actions
The Ministry of Health has refined instructions for medical teams to emphasize the diagnosis and monitoring of the disease. To reduce exposure to mosquitoes, the Ministry recommends using mosquito repellents and appropriate accessories in living spaces, as well as turning on fans in resting areas. West Nile fever has been present in Israel for many years, predominantly between June and November. However, this year, the disease appeared earlier, likely due to climate changes in Israel and globally. The humid weather in the central region of the country contributes to the reproduction and development of mosquitoes.
In response to the outbreak, the Ministry of Health conducts epidemiological investigations and forwards the information to the Ministry of Environmental Protection for local extermination activities. Both ministries also inform the public about areas where mosquitoes infected with the virus are trapped.
- The Ministry of Health reported earlier that 48 people had been diagnosed with West Nile fever, with 36 requiring hospitalization and five on ventilators. Four deaths were confirmed, and an additional death was under investigation.
- The Ministry continues to monitor the situation closely and has sharpened instructions for medical teams to ensure accurate diagnosis and effective monitoring of the disease. The public is urged to take preventive measures to reduce mosquito exposure, especially in the central region where the majority of cases have been reported.
