Parasite attacks — Israeli doctors warn vacationers
A parasite called Microsporidium has been found in the Sea of Galilee, causing eye infections. Israel's Health Ministry reported two cases of corneal damage in swimmers in late June and early July. Swimming is allowed, but if symptoms of eye inflammation occur, an ophthalmologist should be consulted. Beaches Shikim, Tzinbari, and Bereniki are closed due to an influx of vacationers. Lifeguards prevented a tragedy by spotting a person on a SUP board 590 meters from shore.
A parasite called Microsporidium has been found in the Sea of Galilee, causing eye infections and corneal damage. Israel's Ministry of Health reported two diagnosed cases of corneal damage last week. Both affected individuals swam in the lake in late June and early July. The ministry emphasizes that drinking water is safe and swimming is allowed, but if symptoms appear—inflammation, redness, pain, or a foreign body sensation—an ophthalmologist should be consulted. Symptoms may appear one to three weeks after contact with water. Meanwhile, the beaches Shikim, Tzinbari, and Bereniki are closed due to an influx of vacationers and parking lot overcrowding. Also, lifeguards prevented a tragedy by spotting a person on a SUP board about 590 meters from shore north of Bereniki beach; he was without a life jacket and could not return on his own. The dispatch center of the Kinneret Cities Association warned of the risk of drifting in strong winds.