Rabid Fox Bites 14 in Israel, Prompting Public Health Warning

A rabid fox has bitten 14 individuals, including 11 soldiers and 3 civilians, near the settlement of Karnei Shomron and a nearby military base in central Israel. The incidents occurred over the past weekend, with the fox entering the base, attacking soldiers, and later biting a civilian in her yard. Soldiers sustained bites primarily on their limbs, while the civilian was bitten on the leg and treated for light bleeding.

The infected fox also bit stray dogs and came into contact with a cat that was later found dead. The fox was captured and confirmed to be rabid at the Veterinary Institute, after which it was euthanized. Authorities are investigating the possibility of another rabid fox in the area.

All 16 individuals exposed to the rabid fox have been directed to receive preventative rabies treatment, which typically involves a series of vaccinations. The Ministry of Health is urging anyone who may have had contact with the fox or other stray animals in the area between August 31 and September 13 to contact their local health bureau for evaluation.

Dr. Michael Ettinger, chairman of the Veterinary Doctors Association, warned of the fatal nature of rabies, emphasizing that animals infected with the virus may exhibit altered behavior, losing their natural fear of humans. He strongly advised the public against touching, feeding, or attempting to capture any stray or wild animals, and to keep children away from unfamiliar animals. He also stressed the importance of ensuring pets are vaccinated against rabies.