Israel steps up Ebola precautions as two suspected cases are isolated

Israel’s Health Ministry said two people who returned from the Democratic Republic of Congo are being treated as suspected Ebola cases, but no confirmed case has been identified in the country. One patient was admitted in isolation at Sheba Medical Center in Tel Hashomer after developing fever, headache and diarrhea, and another was isolated at Rambam Health Care Campus a day earlier after returning from Congo and developing fever and headache.

The ministry said it is not aware of any additional suspected cases. It did not say whether laboratory tests on the two hospitalized patients have been completed, whether preliminary results are available, or when a final answer is expected. For each case, epidemiological investigations are underway to trace flights, travel routes, places visited in Israel, and people who may have been exposed, including whether the two travelers are linked or shared a source of infection in Congo.

Health officials said anyone identified as a relevant contact will be reached directly by public health staff and given instructions based on exposure level. Those who have not been contacted are not required to isolate, test, or take any special steps. The ministry also reminded travelers returning from Congo or Uganda that if they develop fever or other unusual symptoms within 21 days, they should stay home, avoid contact with others, and call the ministry hotline at 5400*, rather than going to a clinic or emergency room unannounced.

The outbreak in Congo and Uganda is caused by the Bundibugyo strain of Ebola. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Congo had 896 confirmed cases and 232 deaths as of June 17. The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control said the risk to the general public in Europe and other Western countries remains low. The ministry said five hospitals included in the national preparedness plan received protective gear and were instructed to prepare isolation rooms and trained staff.