West Nile Virus Mosquitoes Found in Israel's Sharon and Southern Regions

Mosquitoes carrying the West Nile virus have been detected in Israel's Sharon region and southern areas, including Ramat HaSharon, Emek Hefer, Lev HaSharon, and Eilot. These findings are part of ongoing monitoring by the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Environmental Protection.

Since the start of the season, 20 people have been diagnosed with West Nile fever, with one patient still hospitalized and one fatality reported. Most patients experienced typical symptoms such as fever, rash, and altered consciousness. Epidemiological investigations are underway to pinpoint exposure locations.

The Ministry of Environmental Protection has instructed local authorities, especially in affected areas, to intensify prevention, monitoring, public awareness, and pest control efforts. The risk of mosquitoes carrying the virus is expected to increase between early June and late November.

Health officials are urging the public to eliminate standing water sources like buckets, plant saucers, tires, gutters, ornamental ponds, and barrels. Recommendations also include using approved mosquito repellent, installing window screens, wearing long, light-colored clothing, and using fans. Residents are encouraged to report mosquito nuisances or standing water to their local authorities via the 106 hotline to aid targeted control efforts.

Professor Sigal Sadetzki, head of the Public Health Division at the Ministry of Health, emphasized the need to avoid mosquito bites and reduce standing water, particularly for individuals over 60 and those with pre-existing health conditions who are at higher risk of severe illness.