Jezreel Valley, Hefer Valley, and Sha'ar HaNegev: West Nile virus-infected mosquitoes found

Mosquitoes carrying the West Nile virus have been detected in three new locations: the Jezreel Valley, Hefer Valley, and Sha'ar HaNegev. Since the start of the season, 17 patients have been diagnosed, and one of them has died. Local authorities have been instructed to increase monitoring, pest control, and public awareness efforts.

Mosquitoes carrying the West Nile virus have been detected in three new locations in Israel: the Jezreel Valley, Hefer Valley, and Sha'ar HaNegev. Since the start of the season, 17 patients have been diagnosed with the disease, and one of them has died. Most patients experienced typical symptoms including fever, rash, and changes in consciousness. Epidemiological investigations are ongoing to identify possible exposure sites to mosquitoes. The mosquitoes were captured during routine monitoring conducted by the ministries throughout the year, with an emphasis on mosquito season, and were confirmed as carriers of the virus in Ministry of Health laboratories. Local authorities have been instructed to increase monitoring, pest control, and public awareness. The responsibility for removing hazards and nuisances from pests in public areas lies with local authorities. The public is asked to report mosquito hazards and standing water sources in public spaces to the local authority's 106 hotline. The Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Environmental Protection will continue to monitor morbidity and conduct routine surveillance across the country.