Israel Reports Negative Ebola Test Results for Suspected Case

Israel's Ministry of Health announced on Sunday that tests for Ebola performed on a patient hospitalized with suspected infection have come back negative. The suspicion arose after the individual returned to Israel from the Democratic Republic of Congo and developed symptoms. The patient was admitted to Hadassah Ein Kerem Medical Center, a designated facility for such cases, and was kept in strict isolation, separated from other patients and visitors. Hospital officials confirmed the patient was admitted in good condition.

The Ministry of Health has completed its epidemiological investigation to identify potential contacts. Individuals who have not been directly contacted by the Ministry are not required to take any action. The Ministry emphasized that Ebola is not airborne and is transmitted through direct contact with an infected person exhibiting symptoms, or with their blood, bodily fluids, or excretions.

This marks the second suspected Ebola case to be ruled out in Israel in recent months. The Ministry continues to monitor the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda and urges the public to avoid non-essential travel to affected areas. Travelers returning from these 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.

The Ministry of Health stated that there are currently no confirmed cases of Ebola in Israel and assured the public that it is maintaining preparedness for any potential scenario.