Worrying rise in rabies cases in Israel: The disease is spreading to the center of the country as well
New and worrying data show that rabies in animals is on a sharp upward trend in Israel. According to reports, 63 cases of rabies in animals were diagnosed across the country between January and May 2026.
The numbers indicate a significant increase of 252% compared to the data recorded in 2022. This is the highest figure recorded in recent years, with 102 cases of sick animals documented in 2025 alone.
Beyond the increase in the number of cases, experts point to a worrying geographical shift. While the disease was previously common mainly in specific regions, the virus is now spreading to areas in the center of the country, which increases the level of risk to the general public.
Rabies is a very dangerous disease that is transmitted from animals to humans. The authorities are currently working to raise awareness of the issue and prevent the further spread of the disease, and they recommend that the public exercise extra caution when encountering stray or injured animals.