Israel West Nile virus update: 440 confirmed cases and 32 deaths
In a follow-up on the West Nile virus (WNV) outbreak in Israel, the Ministry of Health reports 440 confirmed cases and 32 deaths as of July 15, 2024.
This is the most cases reported in the country in any year from 2000 to 2023.
According to the Ministry, In general, about 80% of all of those infected with the virus will not develop any West Nile fever symptoms. About 20% of all of those infected will develop symptoms in varying degrees of severity, including fever, general feeling of sickness, headaches or joint and muscle pain. Neurological complications will appear in fewer than 1% of all of those infected. It should be noted that this disease is not transmitted from one person to another, nor from an infected person back to a mosquito. The risk for significant sickness is greater in older adults and in people with immunosuppression.
In order to minimize exposure to mosquitoes, the Ministry of Health advises the public to use mosquito repellants and other devices designed to keep mosquitoes away, as well as to turn on ventilators in any room at which you stay.