Girl, 10, Suffers Severe Foot Injury From Fish Bite in Eilat

A 10-year-old girl named Shir was bitten on the foot by a fish while spending time with her family at Hahotrim (Coral) Beach in Eilat. The incident resulted in deep wounds and a complete tear of her big toe tendon. The Ministry of Health reported that Shir was taken to Yoseftal Medical Center in Eilat, where her wound was cleaned and she received antibiotic treatment to prevent marine infections. She subsequently underwent surgery to repair the tendon.

Shir's mother stated the incident taught them a valuable lesson, emphasizing the importance of wearing water shoes when entering coral reef areas. Dr. Sergey Boykov, head of orthopedics at Yoseftal Medical Center, noted that the child was unable to move her big toe upon examination. During surgery, doctors discovered a complete tear in the tendon responsible for extending the toe, which they sutured to prevent future functional damage. He expressed optimism about the child's full recovery, noting that children generally heal well from such injuries.

Dr. Nassif Assaleh, head of pediatrics at Yoseftal, explained that moray eels, while not typically aggressive, pose an increased biting risk near rocks and during evening hours. He advised beachgoers to avoid approaching marine animals and to always wear water shoes when entering the sea.