Sixty-five soldiers at the Nahal Training Base reported gastrointestinal illness symptoms over the weekend, according to a report cited by ynet. The IDF said on Wednesday that the base is now undergoing an inspection to identify the source of the illness, while immediate containment steps were ordered, including disinfecting toilets, using disposable utensils, and separating toilet stalls for sick and healthy soldiers.
The army said all soldiers who reported feeling unwell are resting and receiving medical treatment as needed. According to IDF Spokesperson’s Unit, those who sought care were first treated at the base, and anyone who needed it was sent home to continue resting. The IDF stressed that the source of the outbreak is still being investigated and that disinfection and separation measures are intended to stop the spread.
In a separate incident over the same weekend, 10 female observers at the Sde Teiman base suffered dehydration and were treated by medical personnel. The IDF said they are under the medical watch of the unit doctor and continue to receive treatment as necessary.
However, the father of one observer told ynet a broader picture, saying, "Since Saturday there has been a long line of girls who fainted, had diarrhea and were vomiting. It is not only in the firing ranges, it is also among those who were not there at all. It looks more like a sanitary problem. It has been going on for two days, and our trust in the system is close to zero." Separately, about 15 observers were previously reported to have suffered heatstroke and dehydration symptoms after being forced to stay in field activity during severe heat, despite claims they were ordered to continue by commanders.
