Israel's West Nile Virus Outbreak Claims Seven Lives

West Nile fever cases have been reported in Israel for many years and generally occur between June and November each year. That annual trend changed in 2024, with fatal cases reported earlier than usual.

The Israeli Ministry of Health (MOH) recently reported that 81 people have been diagnosed with West Nile fever in 2024. Sixty-four people have been hospitalized.

As of July 1, 2024, a total of 7 people who were diagnosed with the virus died.

All of these West Nile cases have been reported in the center of Israel.

The MOH says the risk of significant morbidity is among older adults and people with immunosuppression.

To reduce exposure to mosquitoes, the MOH recommends using mosquito repellents and appropriate measures to keep mosquitoes away in living rooms, as well as turning on fans in the place of residence.

The U.S. CDC says there are no licensed vaccines or medicines to prevent or treat West Nile virus in humans. However, several vaccine candidates have shown safety and immunogenicity in clinical trials.