Rabies Alert Issued for Northern Israel After Infected Jackal Sighting

The Ministry of Health has issued a rabies alert for the Ma'ayan Baruch area in the Upper Galilee following the discovery of an infected jackal. The alert, received on September 7, 2026, urges anyone who may have come into contact with the rabid animal or other stray animals in the region between August 20 and September 3, 2026, to seek immediate preventative treatment.

Individuals who were in the area during the specified dates are advised to contact the Health Bureau in Safed or their nearest health office. Outside of working hours and on weekends, people should report to the nearest hospital emergency room. The Ministry of Health is specifically asking parents to check with their children about any contact with suspicious animals and to consult the health bureau if necessary.

Pet owners are instructed to contact their local veterinarian to ensure their animals are vaccinated. The Ministry also stressed the importance of informing travelers and vacationers in the area about the incident. In the event of a bite or scratch from a suspected rabid animal, the immediate protocol is to thoroughly wash the wound with soap and running water, disinfect it, and then proceed to a health bureau to assess the need for rabies prevention treatment.