Tel Aviv Resident Diagnosed With West Nile Virus in First Case This Summer

The Israeli Ministry of Health and Ministry of Environmental Protection reported on July 26 that a resident of Tel Aviv has been diagnosed with West Nile virus, marking the first confirmed case this summer. Following the diagnosis, the Environmental Protection Ministry instructed the Tel Aviv municipality to intensify prevention, monitoring, mosquito control, and public awareness efforts.

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 symptoms such as encephalitis or meningitis can occur in rare cases.

Despite this case, the Environmental Protection Ministry noted that no mosquitoes carrying the virus have been detected so far this season. Each year from June to November, thousands of mosquito larvae and hundreds of adult mosquitoes are collected nationwide and tested in Health Ministry laboratories.

Both ministries urged the public to help prevent mosquito breeding by eliminating standing water sources such as buckets, flowerpot trays, tires, gutters, and barrels. They also recommended using mosquito repellents, installing window screens, wearing long clothing at dusk, and using fans outdoors. Residents are encouraged to report mosquito nuisances or standing water in public areas to their local authority via hotline 106.