Public Warning: Mosquitoes infected with West Nile virus found in central and northern Israel
The Ministry of Environmental Protection issued an urgent notice to the public this morning (Friday) after identifying mosquitoes infected with the West Nile virus. The mosquitoes were captured during routine monitoring in various areas in the north and center of the country.
Following these findings, the Ministry instructed the relevant local authorities to increase monitoring and extermination efforts in open areas and residential zones. The goal is to prevent the spread of the virus and protect the health of residents in the areas where the infected mosquitoes were found.
The Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Environmental Protection recommend that the public take personal precautions. It is advised to use mosquito repellent products, install screens on windows, and drain standing water sources in yards and balconies, as these provide a favorable environment for mosquito breeding.
West Nile fever is a disease transmitted to humans through the bite of a mosquito that has contracted the virus. In most cases, the disease is mild, but in elderly people or those with weakened immune systems, it can lead to significant medical complications.
The public is asked to remain vigilant and report any standing water hazards or an abundance of mosquitoes in their residential area to the local authorities. The authorities continue to monitor the situation on the ground to reduce the risk to the public in the coming days.