Rabid Jackal Found Near Golan Heights Moshav, Public Health Alert Issued

Israel's Ministry of Health has confirmed a case of rabies in a jackal found in the vicinity of Moshav Ramot on the Golan Heights. Three individuals who had contact with the infected animal have been directed to receive preventive rabies treatment. An epidemiological investigation into the incident is ongoing.

The Ministry is urging anyone who had contact with the rabid jackal or any stray animal in the area between September 5th and 19th, or whose pets may have had contact, to immediately contact the Kinneret Health Bureau in Tiberias or their local health bureau to assess the need for post-exposure prophylaxis. During non-working hours and holidays, individuals should report to the nearest hospital emergency room.

Parents are specifically asked to check with their children about any contact with suspicious animals and to seek immediate medical attention if such contact occurred. Pet owners are advised to consult their municipal veterinarian for further guidance. The Ministry also requests that information about this case be disseminated to tourists and visitors in the affected area and nearby communities.

The Ministry of Health reiterated its standard advice for animal bites or scratches: immediately wash the affected area with soap and running water for approximately 10 minutes, disinfect the wound, and then seek medical evaluation at a health bureau to determine the necessity of rabies treatment.