Rabies Alert Issued After Infected Dog Found in West Bank Settlement

Israel's Ministry of Health has issued a severe warning after a mixed-breed dog, medium-sized and brown and white, was found to be infected with rabies in the settlement of Ma'ale Adumim in the Gush Etzion region of the West Bank. Five individuals who were exposed to the infected dog have been referred to the Health Bureau for consultation and evaluation of preventative treatment, as an epidemiological investigation continues.

The Ministry is urging anyone who came into contact with the infected dog, or any other stray animal in the area since the beginning of the month, to urgently contact the Health Bureau in Ramla at 08-9181202, or their local Health Bureau. Outside of working hours and on weekends, individuals should go directly to a hospital emergency room without an appointment.

Parents are also asked to check with their children if they had contact with the dog or other stray animals in the area. Pet owners whose animals may have come into contact with the infected dog are instructed to immediately contact their local veterinarian.

In a related warning to residents of Karmiel, the Ministry reiterated that in any case of a bite or scratch from an animal, the affected area should be immediately washed with running water and soap for about ten minutes, disinfected, and followed by prompt contact with the nearest Health Bureau.