Rabid Dog Bites Rescuers in Northern Israel, Prompting Health Alert

A dog infected with rabies bit several residents in the community of Kfar Hittim in the Lower Galilee Regional Council on Sunday. The incident occurred when residents attempted to assist the animal, which was exhibiting signs of illness.

Health officials have confirmed the dog was rabid, raising concerns about potential exposure to those who came into contact with it. This event is part of a worrying trend, as the number of rabies cases in Israel has been steadily increasing. As of Sunday, 101 cases of rabies have been diagnosed in animals across the country since the beginning of the year, a figure that is on track to break all previous records.

The Ministry of Health is urging the public to exercise extreme caution and report any stray or sick animals immediately to local authorities. They are also reminding citizens not to approach or attempt to handle animals exhibiting unusual behavior. Those who may have been exposed to the rabid dog in Kfar Hittim are advised to seek immediate medical attention to receive post-exposure prophylaxis, a series of vaccinations that can prevent the development of rabies.