There has been a surge in West Nile fever cases this year, according to data collected by the Ministry of Health. In 2024, seven patients were diagnosed between January and June, compared to six patients in 2023 and only two patients in 2022. At Sheba hospital, six patients have been treated, with three of them already discharged. One patient from Tel Aviv is in a mild condition, while two others are in serious condition – one from the Savion area and the other from Herzliya. Currently, there is one patient in serious condition, one in moderate condition, one in mild-moderate condition, and another in moderate condition. A total of seven verified patients have been treated on the spot.
Professor Cyril Cohen of Bar-Ilan University’s immunotherapy laboratory expressed concern over the significant increase in West Nile fever cases this year compared to previous years. He attributed this rise to changes in weather patterns, citing a rainy year and extreme temperatures leading to stagnant water becoming breeding grounds for mosquitoes carrying the virus. Cohen emphasized the need for older people and those with weakened immune systems to take precautions such as using mosquito repellents. He also called for authorities to take action to eradicate the mosquito population.
The Ministry of Health recommends using mosquito repellents and other accessories to prevent mosquito bites. They attribute the early start of West Nile fever morbidity this year to climate change and humid weather in the central region of the country, which is conducive to mosquito reproduction. The ministry highlights the significant risk of infection among adults and immunocompromised individuals. They continue to monitor the situation closely and will provide updates as necessary.
Six patients at Sheba hospital have been treated for West Nile fever this year, with three already discharged. One patient from Tel Aviv is currently receiving care for a mild case of West Nile fever while two others are being monitored closely due to their serious conditions – one from Savion area and another from Herzliya.
Currently there is one patient who remains hospitalized with a serious case of West Nile fever while another three are recovering after being diagnosed with moderate cases.
Professor Cyril Cohen raised concerns about the sharp increase in West Nile fever cases that has occurred this year compared to previous years.
He believes that changes
