West Nile Virus Cases Rise in Israel, One Fatality Reported

Health and Environmental Protection ministries have reported the capture of mosquitoes infected with the West Nile virus in Ramat HaSharon and the regional councils of Emek Hefer, Lev HaSharon, and Eilot. As of the current season, 20 human cases have been diagnosed, resulting in one death and one patient still hospitalized. The majority of those infected experienced symptoms including fever, rash, and altered consciousness.

Officials are urging the public to take preventative measures. These include draining standing water sources, using mosquito repellent, installing screens on windows, and wearing long, light-colored clothing to minimize exposure. The virus is primarily transmitted through mosquito bites, and these steps aim to reduce both mosquito populations and human contact with infected insects.