West Nile Virus Claims Life of 70-Year-Old in Israel Amid Rising Cases

The Israeli Ministry of Health has reported ten cases of West Nile virus infection since the start of the season, including one fatality. A man in his 70s who developed symptoms in mid-July died after hospitalization due to complications from the disease. Most patients exhibited typical symptoms such as fever, rash, and altered consciousness, with three still hospitalized in stable condition. Epidemiological investigations are ongoing to identify possible mosquito exposure sites.

The summer's warm and humid weather, combined with standing water, has increased mosquito breeding risks. Local authorities are responsible for eliminating public health nuisances caused by mosquitoes, while the public is urged to assist by draining standing water from containers like buckets, plant trays, old tires, gutters, and barrels. Additional preventive measures include using mosquito repellents containing DEET, installing window screens, wearing long light-colored clothing during mosquito activity hours, using fans outdoors, and reporting mosquito nuisances or standing water to local municipal hotlines.

Surveillance by the Ministry of Health and Ministry of Environmental Protection has confirmed West Nile virus-carrying mosquitoes in several locations including Tel Aviv-Yafo, Tayibe, Tira, Kalansawa, and the Lev HaSharon Regional Council. This marks the first detection of infected mosquitoes in central Israel this year, following earlier findings in the south. The Environmental Protection Ministry has instructed local authorities to intensify prevention, monitoring, public education, and mosquito control efforts to reduce virus spread and protect public health.

Prof. Sigal Sadetzki, head of the Public Health Division at the Ministry of Health, emphasized that while West Nile virus is usually mild or asymptomatic, it can cause severe neurological disease, especially in people over 60 or with underlying conditions. Dr. Shay Reicher, director of the Pest Control Division at the Environmental Protection Ministry, highlighted the importance of public cooperation in eliminating mosquito breeding sites to reduce health risks. Both ministries will continue monitoring and update the public as needed.