Mosquitos carrying West Nile virus found throughout Israel

The Environmental Protection Ministry reports that mosquitoes carrying the West Nile virus were captured in the Central District, as well as in the Haifa District, and the Northern and Southern Districts.

The ministry instructs all authorities to further expand monitoring. It notes that the placement of traps across the country is random; even if infected mosquitoes are not captured in a certain area, “this does not guarantee that the area is free of mosquitoes,” the ministry says.

As of the start of this week, the number of patients diagnosed with West Nile virus stood at 566, according to the Health Ministry. A total of 38 people who were diagnosed with the virus have died since the outbreak began in June.

West Nile fever is a disease caused by the West Nile virus.

The virus is primarily transmitted to humans through the bite of infected mosquitoes, particularly species of mosquitoes that feed on birds. The virus does not spread from person to person.

According to the Health Ministry, about 80% of people infected with West Nile virus show no symptoms at all. About 20% may experience varying 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 ministry recommends using mosquito repellent products and suitable devices to repel mosquitoes in living areas, wearing long attire at night when mosquitos are most active, installing screens in windows, and using fans.

The ministry also recommends draining sources of standing water that could serve as mosquito breeding sites, including old tires, buckets, and barrels, flower vases and pet bowls, and gutters.