Suspected Ebola Case Reported in Israel After Traveler Returns From Congo

Israel's Ministry of Health announced Monday evening that a new suspected case of Ebola has been identified in an individual who recently returned from the Democratic Republic of Congo. The individual, who arrived in Israel several days ago, sought medical attention after developing a fever and other symptoms. Currently, the case is only suspected, and diagnostic tests are underway, with results expected in the coming days.

The suspected patient is being treated under isolation protocols for high-risk infectious diseases and will be transferred to the Ichilov Medical Center in Tel Aviv, designated for such cases. The Ministry of Health is conducting an epidemiological investigation to identify potential contacts. Those not contacted by the ministry are not required to take any action at this time.

The Ministry of Health reiterated that Ebola is not airborne and is transmitted through direct contact with an infected person exhibiting symptoms, or through blood, bodily fluids, or excretions. The ministry has been monitoring the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo and has implemented preparedness measures, including distributing professional guidelines to medical teams and hospitals, equipping facilities with protective gear, and establishing early detection systems for travelers returning from affected areas.

Additionally, the ministry advises the public to avoid non-essential travel to regions with active Ebola outbreaks, particularly the Democratic Republic of Congo. Travelers returning from such areas who develop fever or unusual symptoms within 21 days of their stay are urged to remain home, avoid contact with others, and call the Ministry of Health's hotline at *5400, informing them of their travel history.