Five patients have been hospitalized at Ichilov Hospital in Tel Aviv with West Nile fever, some of whom are in serious condition. All five patients are residents of northern Tel Aviv and contracted the disease locally in Israel, not while traveling. The disease was transmitted through mosquito bites and some patients experienced severe neurological symptoms.
Dr. Evgeniy Katsman, a specialist at Ichilov Hospital, has reported three current cases of West Nile fever, with two patients in serious condition. These patients live in different neighborhoods in Tel Aviv and are experiencing varying degrees of illness. One patient has fallen into a coma and requires artificial respiration due to the severity of the disease.
The increase in cases of West Nile fever in Israel is an outbreak in the area, with older patients experiencing more severe complications. Younger patients generally exhibit milder symptoms, while older individuals are more likely to face serious neurological consequences. Some complications can be irreversible, leading to functional impairment and, in some cases, fatal outcomes.
Experts have noted an increase in severe cases of West Nile fever, a trend not seen in many years. This calls for heightened awareness and preventive measures to control the spread of the disease.
It is crucial that people take precautions against mosquito bites by using insect repellent or wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants when outdoors during peak mosquito season. It is also important to avoid standing water where mosquitoes breed as it can lead to an increase in the number of mosquitoes.
If someone experiences any symptoms such as fever, headache or muscle pain and joints aches after being bitten by a mosquito they should seek medical attention immediately.
The situation calls for increased awareness among the public about the dangers of West Nile fever and taking preventive measures to control its spread.
