West Nile Virus-Carrying Mosquitoes Found in Menashe, Ramat Hasharon, and Eilat

The Israeli Ministry of Health and Ministry of Environmental Protection have reported the capture of mosquitoes infected with the West Nile virus in the Menashe Regional Council, Ramat Hasharon, and Eilat. Since the start of the virus season, 13 human cases have been diagnosed, including one fatality due to complications from the disease. Most patients exhibited typical symptoms such as fever, rash, and altered consciousness. Currently, no patients remain hospitalized, and epidemiological investigations are ongoing to identify possible exposure sites.

The infected mosquitoes were detected during routine monitoring conducted year-round, with increased focus during mosquito season. These findings add to previous reports of infected mosquitoes found in other locations across Israel. In response, the Ministry of Environmental Protection has instructed all local authorities, especially those in affected areas, to intensify prevention, monitoring, public education, and mosquito control efforts to reduce the risk of virus spread and protect public health.

Professor Sigal Sadetzki, head of the Public Health Division at the Ministry of Health, explained that West Nile virus is transmitted to humans through mosquito bites from mosquitoes that feed on infected birds. While most infections are mild or asymptomatic, severe cases involving encephalitis or meningitis can occur, particularly in people over 60 or those with underlying health conditions. Dr. Shay Reicher, director of the Pest Control Department at the Ministry of Environmental Protection, emphasized the recent captures of infected mosquitoes in northern, central, and southern Israel and the importance of immediate local actions to mitigate health risks.

The ministries urge the public to assist by eliminating standing water sources such as buckets, flowerpot trays, old tires, gutters, ornamental pools, and barrels, using approved 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 authorities via hotline 106. The ministries will continue monitoring the situation and update the public as necessary.