West Nile Virus Detected in Mosquitoes Across Multiple Israeli Regions

Israel's Ministries of Environmental Protection and Health announced on Tuesday the detection of female mosquitoes carrying the West Nile virus in several locations, including Ramat Hasharon and the regional councils of Emek Hefer, Lev HaSharon, and Eilot. This finding indicates the continued presence and activity of the virus during the mosquito season.

Since the start of the West Nile virus season, 20 human cases have been diagnosed. One patient remains hospitalized, and one death has been reported. The Ministry of Health stated that most cases presented with typical symptoms such as fever, rash, and altered consciousness, while epidemiological investigations are ongoing to identify exposure sites.

The Ministry of Environmental Protection has instructed local authorities, particularly in areas where infected mosquitoes were found, to expand surveillance, prevention, control, and public awareness efforts to mitigate the spread of the virus. Both ministries are intensifying monitoring during the mosquito season, as warmer temperatures and stagnant water facilitate mosquito breeding.

Preventive measures recommended include draining stagnant water sources, using approved mosquito repellents, installing window screens, wearing long, light-colored clothing, and using fans indoors and outdoors. Residents are also urged to report mosquito or stagnant water accumulations to local authorities.

The Ministry of Health warned that while most infected individuals are asymptomatic, a small percentage may develop severe, potentially fatal neurological complications. The ministry emphasized the need for heightened preventive measures, especially for the elderly and those with chronic illnesses, who are at higher risk of severe illness.

The Ministry of Environmental Protection stressed that the detection of infected mosquitoes underscores the ongoing risk of human exposure and highlighted the importance of public cooperation with authorities in reporting potential breeding grounds to enable swift and effective control operations. Both ministries will continue monitoring the situation and infections nationwide, with projections indicating a continued rise in the prevalence of infected mosquitoes until the end of November.