Israel Health Ministry Warns of Suspected Ebola Case

Israel's Ministry of Health issued a warning on Thursday regarding a suspected case of Ebola in the country. The alert follows a report of an individual who developed a fever after returning from the Democratic Republic of Congo several days prior.

Health officials emphasized that this is currently only a suspicion, and necessary tests are underway, with results expected in the coming days. The individual will be treated in isolation according to protocols for high-risk infectious diseases and transferred to the Hadassah Ein Kerem Medical Center, designated for such cases. The ministry has completed an epidemiological investigation to identify relevant contacts.

Ebola is not airborne and is transmitted through direct contact with an infected person's symptoms, blood, or bodily fluids, the ministry clarified. Laboratory tests will be conducted to confirm the suspicion, following international and domestic medical protocols.

The ministry stated it has been monitoring the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo and has prepared the healthcare system for potential scenarios. This preparation includes distributing guidelines to medical teams and hospitals, acquiring protective equipment, establishing early detection systems for travelers from affected areas, and setting up laboratory identification capabilities.

Health officials urged the public to avoid non-essential travel to areas with active Ebola outbreaks, particularly the Democratic Republic of Congo. Those returning from such regions who develop fever or unusual symptoms within 21 days are advised to stay home, avoid contact with others, and call the Health Ministry's hotline, specifying their travel history.