Health Ministry Sounds Alarm: Rabies Rapidly Spreading Across the Country

Israel's Health Ministry reports a sharp rise in rabies cases among animals: from 29 cases in 2022 to 102 in 2025 (a 252% increase). In 2026, 69 cases have already been confirmed, with a projected 132–150 by year-end. Medical visits for contact with infected animals rose from 12,343 in 2010 to 24,219 in 2025. Public Health Division head Sigal Sadetsky emphasizes the virus's deadly danger. The main reservoir is jackals (60% of cases). Causes: animal migration, anthropogenic factors, irresponsible pet relocation.

Israel's Health Ministry is sounding the alarm over the rapid spread of rabies. According to official data, the number of confirmed animal infections rose by 252% in three years: from 29 in 2022 to 102 in 2025. In 2026, 69 cases have already been recorded, and forecasts point to a possible anti-record of 132–150 cases by year-end. The number of hospital visits for contact with potentially infected animals nearly doubled: from 12,343 in 2010 to 24,219 in 2025. Public Health Division head Sigal Sadetsky emphasizes that rabies is incurable and fatal without emergency prophylaxis. The main reservoir of infection is jackals (60% of cases), followed by foxes. Experts link the worsening situation to animal migration due to denser construction, non-compliance with sanitary standards, feeding of stray cats, and irresponsible relocation of unvaccinated pets. For example, transporting an unvaccinated dog from Jerusalem to Tel Aviv led to emergency examination of 52 people. The Health Ministry reminds of the action protocol after a bite: wash the wound with soap and water for 10 minutes and contact the health bureau or hospital.