This year, West Nile fever has emerged earlier than usual in Israel, with cases being reported in Ramat Gan over the past two weeks. The Ministry of Environment has informed local authorities about this finding and prompted them to take action to eliminate mosquito breeding grounds. Municipalities and local councils in central Israel are conducting inspections of their areas, draining sources of standing water, basements, and other potential mosquito breeding sites. Mosquitoes are also being captured for further analysis.
So far, there have been nine cases of hospitalization of patients with West Nile fever, six of whom were admitted to Sheba and Ichilov hospitals for complications of the disease. Three additional patients were treated and released. All patients acquired the infection in Israel as a result of mosquito bites. The infection zone ranges from Bat Yam to Savyon.
The Ministry of Health has noted that the emergence of West Nile fever may be due to climate change. Generally, patients with West Nile fever may not show any symptoms at all, with 80% of cases being asymptomatic. However, in some cases, secondary complications may arise.
In older individuals, these complications can include neurological ones such as meningitis or encephalitis. While younger patients may experience typical virus symptoms such as fever, abdominal pain, and diarrhea, older patients are more likely to develop serious complications.
The prognosis for patients with severe complications is poor. In some cases, irreversible disorders and functional impairments that greatly reduce the chances of returning to normal life can occur. Unfortunately, the disease can also be fatal.
It is important for everyone to take precautions against mosquito bites by using insect repellent or wearing long sleeves and pants when outdoors during peak mosquito season. Eliminating standing water sources and regularly inspecting one’s home or yard can also help prevent mosquito breeding grounds.
The Ministry of Environment will continue its efforts to monitor and control mosquito populations throughout the summer season.
