Israel Reports Suspected Ebola Case in Traveler Returning From Congo

Israel's Ministry of Health announced on Tuesday that it has received a report of an individual suspected of having Ebola, who recently returned from the Democratic Republic of Congo. The person, who arrived back in Israel several days ago, has developed a fever. Currently, it is only a suspicion, and the necessary investigations and tests are underway, with results expected in the coming days.

The individual will be treated under isolation conditions at Hadassah Ein Kerem Medical Center, designated for such cases, in accordance with professional protocols for high-risk infectious diseases. The Ministry of Health has completed an epidemiological investigation to identify relevant contacts. Those not contacted by the ministry are not required to take any action at this time.

The ministry emphasized that Ebola is not airborne and is transmitted through direct contact with an infected person's blood, bodily fluids, or secretions. The investigation will involve a series of laboratory tests following international and domestic medical protocols.

Since the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo, the Ministry of Health has been monitoring global developments and preparing the healthcare system. This preparation includes distributing professional guidelines to medical teams and hospitals, acquiring protective equipment, establishing early detection mechanisms for travelers from affected areas, and setting up laboratory testing capabilities for Ebola.

The Ministry of Health advises against non-essential travel to areas with active Ebola outbreaks, particularly the Democratic Republic of Congo. Travelers returning from such areas who develop fever or unusual symptoms within 21 days of their visit are urged to stay home, avoid contact with others, and call the Ministry of Health's hotline, specifying their travel history. The ministry stressed that no confirmed Ebola cases have been diagnosed in Israel and will continue to provide updates.