Doctors Warn of Dangerous Situation Near Israel's Borders
The head of the Palestinian Authority's veterinary union, Abdel Karim Abu-Zneid, warned of the rapid spread of rabies and an increase in stray dogs. Since mid-2025, cases of infection have been recorded, with more fatalities. A veterinarian from Ramallah was infected several weeks ago. Samples were sent to Israel for testing. The union plans a meeting to address the issue.
The head of the Palestinian Authority's veterinary union, Dr. Abdel Karim Abu-Zneid, warned of the rapid spread of rabies and a critical increase in the number of stray dogs. According to him, since mid-2025, several confirmed cases of infection have been recorded, and in recent months the number of deaths has noticeably increased. A veterinarian from a clinic in Ramallah was infected with the dangerous infection several weeks ago. Abu-Zneid expressed surprise at the lack of official statements from the PA Ministry of Health, but stated that he has accurate data on deaths in Jenin and the Jordan Valley. Laboratories cannot conduct tests, so samples were sent to Israel, where the presence of the virus was confirmed. Wild foxes are the most common carriers. The union plans a meeting in Ramallah with representatives of ministries and international organizations. Previously, a campaign to reduce the stray dog population was planned with the support of European diplomats, but after the events of October 7, 2023, international contacts were suspended.