17 Diagnosed With West Nile Fever as Infected Mosquitoes Found Across Israel
West Nile virus detected in mosquitoes across Israel, with 17 diagnosed cases, including one fatality, prompting health warnings.
Jerusalem, 25 August, 2026 (TPS-IL) — Israeli authorities said Tuesday that mosquitoes carrying West Nile virus have been detected in the Jezreel Valley in northern Israel, the Hefer Valley in central Israel and the Shaar Negev Regional Council in the south.
Since the start of the current West Nile fever season, 17 people have been diagnosed with the disease, the Health and Environmental Protection Ministries said. One patient remains hospitalized and one has died. Symptoms reported among most patients include fever, rash and changes in consciousness.
The ministries urged residents to eliminate standing water, use approved mosquito repellent, install window screens and wear long, light-colored clothing. Residents were also asked to report mosquito hazards and standing water in public areas to local authorities.