West Nile Fever Continues to Spread in Israel: 153 Diagnoses and 11 Deaths Reported as Mosquitoes Carry the Disease

On Wednesday, July 3, the Israeli Health Ministry reported a total of 153 people have been diagnosed with West Nile fever in the country. The number of deaths related to the disease has risen to 11, with four new fatalities occurring in the past three days.

According to Health Ministry specialists, in 80% of cases, those infected with the West Nile virus may not exhibit any symptoms. However, in 20% of cases, patients may experience general malaise, headaches, body aches, and a fever. Additionally, around 1% of patients may develop neurological complications. It is important to note that the West Nile virus is not transmitted from person to person but rather through infected mosquitoes. Those most vulnerable to the disease include the elderly and individuals with weakened immune systems.

In a separate report on the same day, the Environment Ministry announced the discovery of mosquitoes carrying the West Nile fever virus in central Israel and the Eilat area. The first cases of the disease were recorded in Eilat. In response, the Environment Ministry has issued guidelines to local authorities on how to effectively combat these disease-carrying mosquitoes.