Rabid Jackal Found in Upper Galilee Prompts Health Warnings

Israel's Ministry of Health announced on Monday, September 7, 2026, the discovery of a jackal infected with rabies in the Upper Galilee town of Ma'ayan Baruch. An epidemiological investigation is ongoing, and no human contacts with the infected animal have been identified thus far.

The ministry urged anyone who may have come into contact with the jackal, or whose animals may have interacted with it or any stray animals in the area between August 20 and September 3, to immediately visit the health office in Safed or their nearest health clinic. This is to assess the need for preventative treatment.

Outside of regular office hours and on weekends, individuals should report to the nearest hospital emergency room. The ministry also advised parents to inquire with their children about any potential contact with suspected rabid animals. Pet owners were instructed to consult their local authority veterinarian to confirm their animals' vaccination status and to inform anyone visiting or vacationing in the region and nearby communities about the incident.

The Ministry of Health reiterated the importance of immediately washing any bite or scratch wound with soap and running water, disinfecting it, and then proceeding to a health office to determine if rabies post-exposure prophylaxis is necessary.