Authorities issue warning as mosquitoes with West Nile virus found in Rehovot, Modiin

The Environmental Protection Ministry reports that mosquitoes carrying the West Nile virus have been caught in Rehovot and Modiin-Maccabim-Reut.

The ministry instructs all authorities to further expand their monitoring and pest control efforts, both in urban areas and in uninhabited regions.

It asks members of the public to protect themselves to reduce the risk of mosquito bites.

The number of patients diagnosed with the virus has risen to 847, according to the Health Ministry.

A total of 61 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. 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.