West Nile Virus Mosquitoes Found Across Northern and Southern Israel as Cases Rise to 17

Israeli health and environmental authorities have reported the capture of mosquitoes infected with the West Nile virus in the Jezreel Valley, Emek Hefer, and Sha'ar HaNegev regional councils. Since the start of the season, 17 human cases of West Nile fever have been diagnosed, including one fatality and one patient currently hospitalized. Most patients exhibited symptoms such as fever, rash, and altered consciousness. In response, the Ministry of Environmental Protection has instructed local authorities to intensify mosquito control and prevention efforts. The public is urged to eliminate standing water sources, use mosquito repellents, install window screens, and wear long, light-colored clothing to reduce the risk of infection.