Israel Reports First West Nile Virus Death This Year Amid Rising Cases

The Israeli Ministry of Health has confirmed ten cases of West Nile virus infection since the start of the season, including the first fatality this year. 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 Ministry of Health and Ministry of Environmental Protection emphasize that the warm, humid summer conditions have increased mosquito breeding risks, particularly in standing water. Local authorities are responsible for removing public health nuisances caused by mosquitoes, while the public is urged to eliminate standing water in containers like buckets, flowerpot trays, old tires, gutters, and barrels. Preventive measures include using mosquito repellents with DEET, installing window screens, wearing long light-colored clothing during mosquito activity hours, and using fans indoors and outdoors.

Mosquito monitoring has detected West Nile virus-carrying mosquitoes in Tel Aviv-Yafo, Tayibe, Tira, Kalansawa, and Lev HaSharon Regional Council. Following these findings, the Environmental Protection Ministry instructed local authorities to intensify prevention, monitoring, public education, and mosquito control efforts to reduce virus spread and protect public health. This year marks the first detection of infected mosquitoes in central Israel, in addition to previous findings in the south.

Prof. Sigal Sadetzki, head of the Public Health Division at the Ministry of Health, explained that West Nile virus is transmitted to humans via mosquito bites from infected birds. While most cases are mild or asymptomatic, severe neurological complications can occur, especially in people over 60 or with underlying health conditions, highlighting the importance of preventive measures. Dr. Shay Reicher, director of the Pest Control Division at the Environmental Protection Ministry, stressed the critical role of public cooperation in eliminating standing water and reporting mosquito nuisances to local authorities to effectively reduce mosquito populations.

Both ministries will continue monitoring the situation nationwide and provide updates as necessary to safeguard public health.