West Nile Virus-Carrying Mosquitoes Found in Multiple Israeli Regions, Authorities Urge Precautions

Israeli authorities have detected mosquitoes infected with the West Nile virus in several areas, including the Menashe Regional Council, Ramat Hasharon, and Eilat. Following these findings, the Ministry of Environmental Protection instructed local municipalities, especially those where infected mosquitoes were found, to intensify prevention, monitoring, public education, and mosquito control efforts to reduce the risk of virus spread and protect public health.

Since the start of the virus season, 13 cases of West Nile virus infection have been diagnosed in Israel, including a man in his 70s who died from complications after hospitalization. Most patients exhibited typical symptoms such as fever, rash, and altered consciousness. Currently, no patients are hospitalized. Epidemiological investigations are ongoing to identify possible mosquito exposure sites.

The Ministry of Health warns that summer conditions, hot, humid weather and standing water, heighten the risk of mosquito proliferation. The public is urged to eliminate standing water sources around homes, use approved mosquito repellents containing active ingredients like DEET, install window and door screens, wear long light-colored clothing during peak mosquito activity, use fans outdoors, and report mosquito nuisances or standing water to local authorities via hotline 106.

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 infected birds. While most infections are mild or asymptomatic, severe cases can involve encephalitis or meningitis, especially in people over 60 or with underlying health conditions, underscoring the importance of preventive measures.

Dr. Shay Reicher, director of the Pest Control Division at the Ministry of Environmental Protection, emphasized recent captures of infected mosquitoes across northern, central, and southern Israel. He reiterated the ministry's detailed instructions to municipalities for immediate action to reduce risks and called on the public to assist by drying standing water and reporting mosquito hazards promptly to enable swift and effective responses.