01 Jul 2024 | 03:44 PM UTC
Israel: Elevated West Nile fever activity reported in multiple areas in July
Elevated West Nile fever activity reported in multiple areas in Isreal, especially in Central district, in July. Avoid mosquito bites.
Health officials have reported elevated West Nile fever activity across multiple areas in Isreal, with more than 81 cases reported from Jan. 1-July 1. The case count is approximately 406.25 percent higher than for the same period in 2023 (16 cases). A total of 64 cases have been hospitalized. Most cases are reported from the central district, with most hospitalized cases in Kfar Saba. The Ministry of Health recommends using mosquito repellents and appropriate accessories to prevent mosquito bites. This report represents the most up-to-date information available as of July 1.
Avoid mosquito bites and remove standing water to reduce the number of biting mosquitoes. Seek medical attention if symptoms develop within two weeks of being in affected areas.
West Nile virus is present yearly in Israel, with the risk highest from June through November, especially in the central region, due to high humidity and favorable conditions for mosquito breeding. Israel reported 23 cases in 2020, 34 in 2021, 25 in 2022, and 53 in 2023.
West Nile virus is transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito. Most infected people develop no symptoms. However, approximately 20 percent of infected people develop febrile illness characterized by symptoms of fever, headache, body aches, joint pains, vomiting, diarrhea, and rash. Fewer than 1 percent of infected individuals develop serious neurologic illness, which can be life-threatening. Symptoms typically appear 2-6 days after being bitten but can develop up to 14 days after exposure.
