Two Bathers in Sea of Galilee Diagnosed with Dangerous Eye Parasite

The Israeli Ministry of Health reported two cases of corneal infection caused by a parasite named Microsporidium found in the Sea of Galilee's water. Both patients had bathed in the lake in late June and early July before developing symptoms. The parasite can cause keratitis and, in some cases, vision impairment.

The Ministry emphasized that drinking the lake water or swimming in it does not pose a general health risk, and there is no recommendation to avoid bathing. However, anyone who develops eye redness, pain, or a sensation of a foreign body in the eye after swimming in the Sea of Galilee should promptly consult an ophthalmologist. Symptoms may appear between one to three weeks following exposure.

Health authorities continue to monitor the situation closely and stress that early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent complications and preserve vision.