The Health Ministry and Environmental Protection Ministry are warning of an increased risk of West Nile virus infection after mosquitoes carrying the virus were trapped in the Jezreel Valley, Hefer Valley, and Sha’ar HaNegev regional councils. Since the start of the season, 17 people have been diagnosed with the disease in Israel—one person has died, and another remains hospitalized.
1+The Environmental Protection Ministry says the findings indicate the virus is present across the country. Officials have instructed local authorities to immediately expand monitoring, prevention, and pest control operations in their areas to reduce the risk of spread.
Symptoms and At-Risk Groups
Most patients who contracted the virus suffered from typical symptoms including fever, rash, and loss of consciousness. Prof. Sigal Sadetzki, head of the Public Health Division at the Health Ministry, explained that the disease is transmitted to humans through bites from mosquitoes that fed on infected birds. “Usually it’s a mild disease without symptoms, but in rare cases severe symptoms can appear such as encephalitis or meningitis,” Sadetzki said. “The risk of severe disease is higher among people 60 and older and those with underlying medical conditions, so it’s important to follow prevention measures.”
1+How to Protect Yourself
Due to the hot and humid weather and the presence of standing water during summer, the danger of mosquito breeding increases. The ministries are calling on the public to take the following steps:
- Drain standing water: Drain and dry standing water in buckets, plant saucers, tires, gutters, and ornamental pools.
- Personal protection: Use approved mosquito repellents (containing active ingredients such as DEET) and wear long, light-colored clothing during mosquito activity hours.
- Protect your home: Install screens on windows and use fans inside the house and yard.
- Report to the 106 hotline: Immediately report mosquito nuisances and standing water sources in public spaces to local authorities.
Dr. Shai Reicher, director of the Pests and Pest Control Division at the Environmental Protection Ministry, stressed that real-time reporting by residents to local authorities is a critical component that allows pest control operations to be targeted quickly and efficiently. The ministry will continue conducting ongoing monitoring nationwide until the end of mosquito season in November.