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Since the beginning of June, West Nile fever has affected 21 patients in Israel. Sadly, two women have lost their lives due to complications from the disease while being treated at Beilinson Hospital. Out of these 21 patients, 17 were hospitalized with neurological complications, including three who required ventilators. A man around 60 years old was the first patient to be diagnosed with West Nile fever at Wolfson Hospital and is currently in moderate condition.
In response to the rising cases of West Nile fever, the Ministry of Health has issued updated guidelines to hospitals across the country. These guidelines emphasize the importance of early diagnosis and prevention measures to stop the spread of the disease. It is important to note that West Nile fever is not transmitted from person-to-person; it is caused by a virus carried by mosquitoes. Approximately 80% of those infected with the virus do not experience any symptoms, while 20% may develop symptoms such as fever, malaise, headaches, and body pain. Rare neurological complications can occur in less than 1% of those infected and pose a greater risk to older adults and individuals with weakened immune systems.
