Health Ministry Warns of Rabies Risk After Fox Found Infected in Northern Israel

Israel's Ministry of Health has issued an urgent public warning following the discovery of a rabid fox in the community of Kfar Hittim, located in the Lower Galilee region. The official notification of this finding was received on Tuesday, and an epidemiological investigation is ongoing. Currently, there is no information about any humans or animals exposed to the infected fox.

The Ministry is urging all residents, travelers, and vacationers who were in or around Kfar Hittim between August 23 and September 6, 2026, and who may have had direct contact with the fox or whose pets may have interacted with it or other stray animals, to immediately contact the Kinneret Health Bureau or their nearest health bureau. This is to assess the need for life-saving preventative treatment. Outside of operating hours and on weekends, individuals are instructed to go to the nearest hospital emergency room.

In addition to public outreach, the Ministry of Health is reinforcing safety guidelines. Parents are advised to speak openly with their children to determine if they have encountered or petted any suspicious animals in the area. Pet owners are requested to contact their local veterinarian immediately to ensure their pets' rabies vaccinations are up to date. The warning is also being disseminated to travelers and vacationers in nearby communities.

The Ministry is also reminding the public of procedures in case of bites or scratches from an animal. Wounds should be thoroughly and immediately washed with running water and soap, disinfected with specialized agents, and followed by prompt examination at a health bureau.