Health Ministry Warns of Rabies After Infected Fox Found in Northern Israel

Israel's Ministry of Health issued a public warning on Sunday following the discovery of a fox infected with rabies in Kiryat Shmona, located in the Upper Galilee region. The infected animal was found near the Hesder Yeshiva, on HaNavi'im Alley. While an epidemiological investigation is underway, no individuals are known to have been exposed to the fox.

Health officials are urging anyone who may have come into contact with the infected fox, or any stray animal in the area, between September 21 and October 5, 2026, to urgently contact the health bureau in Safed or their local health office. This is to assess the need for preventative rabies treatment. Outside of work hours and on weekends, individuals should go directly to a hospital emergency room, without needing an appointment.

Given the unusual findings and the spread of the viral disease across the country, the Ministry of Health has provided specific guidelines for the public. Parents of children who were in the area are advised to check if their children had any contact with the fox or other stray animals and to contact the health bureau if necessary. Pet owners whose animals may have had contact with the infected fox should consult their local veterinarian for treatment instructions.

The ministry also stressed that in case of a bite or scratch from an animal, the wound should be immediately washed with soap and running water for at least 10 minutes, disinfected, and followed by prompt contact with the health bureau for a rabies prevention assessment. Rabies is described as a fatal viral infectious disease affecting the central nervous system of mammals, including humans, and is incurable once symptoms appear. The virus is primarily transmitted through the saliva of an infected animal, typically via a bite, scratch, or contact of saliva with an open wound or mucous membranes. Wild animals like foxes, jackals, wolves, and bats are common carriers in nature.