Rabies epidemic continues: 103 cases detected so far this year

103 rabies cases have been detected since the start of the year in Israel, a figure matching last year's negative record. The 103rd incident occurred in Moshav Haresh, where an infected dog bit three residents. The Ministry of Health has opened an epidemiological investigation.

103 rabies cases have been detected since the start of the year in Israel, a figure matching last year's negative record and expected to surpass it. The 103rd incident occurred in Moshav Haresh in the Shomron, where an infected dog that was hit by a vehicle inside the settlement bit three residents who came to its aid. Health and veterinary authorities are treating the incident with utmost seriousness due to the fact that the infected animal penetrated deep into the settlement. Three days before the incident, a report was received about a dog attacking another dog belonging to local residents, and the epidemiological system is investigating whether it is the same animal. Dr. Michael Ettinger, chairman of the Veterinary Doctors Association, explains that this is a public health event in every sense, and that each such case must be investigated as part of the possibility of an active infection chain in the area. The Ministry of Health is appealing to parents of children who were in the area to check if they came into contact with stray animals, and asks pet owners whose animals may have been exposed to the dog to contact a veterinarian.