West Nile cases surge in Israel as infected mosquitos spread to new cities
More than 800 reported cases mark worst outbreak of disease in Israel in more than two decades, as virus tracked to Rehovot, Modiin
Mosquitoes carrying West Nile fever have been being found in a growing number of cities across central Israel, authorities said this week, as the number of cases surged to over 800 amid the biggest outbreak of the virus in more than two decades.
In the years 2023, 2022 and 2021, there were 49, 35 and 38 cases of West Nile diagnosed respectively in Israel, according to Health Ministry data.
On Thursday, the Environmental Protection Ministry reported that there were mosquitos carrying the virus identified in Rehovot and Modiin, after earlier being found in Tel Aviv, Ramat Hasharon, the Mateh Yehuda Regional Council, the Jerusalem foothills and the Yoav Regional Council southeast of Tel Aviv.
A total of 61 people in Israel who have been diagnosed with the virus have died since the outbreak began in June.
West Nile fever occurs mainly in Israel between June and November. This year, the incidence started earlier than usual, likely due to climate changes. Places with humid conditions provide a good breeding ground for mosquitoes that spread the virus to humans.
The Environmental Protection Ministry has instructed all authorities to further expand their monitoring and pest control efforts, both in urban areas and in uninhabited regions. It also told members of the public to protect themselves to reduce the risk of mosquito bites.
The Health Ministry has recommended people use mosquito repellent products and suitable devices to repel mosquitoes, wear long attire at night, when mosquitos are most active, and install screens in their windows, and use fans.
Infected mosquitoes transmit the West Nile virus to humans. The virus does not spread from person to person.
About 80 percent 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.
