From the Liveblog of
Tuesday, August 27, 2024
As West Nile virus spreads, Environmental Protection Ministry orders authorities to step up pest control efforts
Reporter at The Times of Israel
The Environmental Protection Ministry reports that mosquitoes carrying the West Nile fever virus were trapped in Rishon Lezion, Qalansawe, Tayibe, Modiin-Maccabim-Reut, the Jezreel Valley Regional Council, and the Hefer Valley Regional Council.
The ministry has instructed all authorities to further expand their monitoring and pest control efforts, dry out mosquito breeding sites, reduce their population, and avoid unnecessary bites and illness.
According to the Health Ministry, the number of patients diagnosed with the virus rose to 870 as of last week.
A total of 62 people who were diagnosed with the virus have died since the outbreak began in June.
Infected mosquitoes transmit the West Nile virus to humans. The virus does not spread from person to person.
About 80% of people infected with West Nile virus show no symptoms at all. About 20% may experience varying degrees of symptoms, including fever, headaches, and body aches.
Less than 1% of those infected will have possible rare complications such as acute inflammation of the brain or meningitis.
The risk of significant illness is higher among the elderly and people with weakened immune systems.
