(haipo) – The Ministry of Health announced that a 70-year-old man has died after contracting West Nile fever, the viral disease transmitted by the bite of infected mosquitoes. Since the beginning of the year, ten patients have been diagnosed in Israel, and three of them are still hospitalized in good condition. At the same time, mosquitoes found to be carrying the virus were located in several locations in the center of the country, which led the Ministry of Environmental Protection to order local authorities to increase monitoring, pest control and public information activities.
Spread of the virus: Patients and infected mosquitoes in central Israel
- Since the beginning of the year: 10 patients with West Nile fever
- One patient died after complications from the disease.
- Infected mosquitoes were detected in Tel Aviv-Yafo, Taibe, Tira, Qalanswa, and the heart of Sharon.
- Three patients are still hospitalized and in good condition.
Epidemiological investigations are continuing with the aim of locating possible exposure sites.
Guidelines for local authorities: Increased monitoring and pest control
Following the detection of infected mosquitoes, the Ministry of Environmental Protection instructed the authorities:
- Expand prevention and monitoring activities
- Increase pest control in public areas
- To enhance public awareness
- Address sanitary hazards and stagnant water sources
Summer, due to the heat and humidity, is a period prone to mosquito development, and therefore increased preparation is required.
Guidelines for the public: How to reduce the risk
- Dry and drain sources of standing water (buckets, planter trays, tires, gutters, etc.)
- Use mosquito repellents
- Install screens on windows
- Wear long, light-colored clothing after dark.
- Turn on fans indoors and outdoors
- Report mosquito infestations to hotline 106
Residents' reports help authorities focus pest control operations quickly and effectively.
"It is important to take precautions"
Prof. Sigal Sadetzky, Head of the Public Health Division at the Ministry of Health: "West Nile fever is usually a mild illness, but in exceptional cases, serious symptoms such as encephalitis may occur. The risk is higher among people aged 60 and over and people with underlying diseases, so it is important to take preventive measures."
Dr. Shai Reicher, Director of the Pest and Pest Control Division at the Ministry of Environmental Protection: "Infected mosquitoes were captured in several locations in the center of the country. Drying up standing water and reporting it to the local authority are critical steps to reducing the mosquito population and protecting public health."
The Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Environmental Protection will continue to conduct ongoing monitoring throughout the country and update the public according to developments.