The Ministry of Environment has reported that mosquitoes infected with West Nile fever have been found in Ramat Gan over the last two weeks. Local authorities were alerted to this information and have since begun efforts to eliminate mosquito breeding grounds. Municipalities and local councils in central Israel are conducting inspections in their areas, draining standing water sources, basements, and other potential mosquito breeding areas. Mosquitoes are being caught and analyzed for further study.
In recent years, cases of West Nile fever have become more common in Israel, with nine hospitalizations due to the disease reported so far this year. Six patients were hospitalized at Sheba and Ichilov hospitals for complications related to the disease, including neurological issues. Three additional patients were treated and discharged. All cases were acquired in Israel from mosquito bites, with the infection zone ranging from Bat Yam to Savyon.
West Nile fever is often asymptomatic, with 80% of cases showing no symptoms. However, in some cases, secondary complications can arise, particularly in older individuals. While younger patients may experience mild symptoms such as fever, abdominal pain, and diarrhea, older patients are more likely to develop serious complications, including neurological issues. Prognosis for these individuals is often serious, with irreversible disorders and functional impairments being common outcomes. In some cases, West Nile fever can be fatal.
As a result of these findings, local authorities have taken steps to reduce the risk of further transmission by eliminating mosquito breeding grounds and catching infected mosquitoes for further analysis. The Ministry of Health has noted that cases of West Nile fever have begun earlier than usual this year
