Man, 70, dies after contracting West Nile fever
The Health Ministry announced the death of a man in his 70s who contracted West Nile fever. Since the start of the season, ten patients have been diagnosed. The Environmental Protection Ministry and the Health Ministry reported the capture of infected mosquitoes in the central region. Authorities were instructed to expand pest control and prevention activities.
The Health Ministry announced today (Thursday) the death of a man in his 70s after contracting West Nile fever. This is the first reported death of the season. Since the start of the season, ten patients have been diagnosed in Israel with the disease. One patient, about 70 years old, developed symptoms in mid-July and was hospitalized due to complications of the disease. Most patients suffered from fever, rash, and changes in consciousness. Three patients are still hospitalized in good condition. Meanwhile, the Environmental Protection Ministry and the Health Ministry reported the capture of mosquitoes infected with the virus in Tel Aviv-Yafo, Tayibe, Tira, Qalansawe, and the Lev HaSharon Regional Council. The Environmental Protection Ministry instructed local authorities to expand prevention, monitoring, information, and pest control measures. The Health Ministry published guidelines for the public: dry standing water sources, use mosquito repellent, install screens on windows, operate a fan, and report mosquito hazards to hotline 106.