With the number of patients with West Nile fever on the rise in Gush Dan, health officials are urging immediate action to eradicate mosquitoes and prevent a potential outbreak of hundreds of cases. The disease has been present in Israel for many years, with outbreaks recorded as early as the 1950s. In recent years, dozens of cases have been reported annually, with the current wave of infections particularly high. Mosquitoes infected with the virus have been found in various areas across the country, from north to south.
Symptoms of West Nile fever include fever, headache, weakness, joint and muscle pain, conjunctivitis, rash, and in severe cases, neurological signs like meningitis or encephalitis. Most cases resolve on their own, but it is important to seek medical advice if symptoms worsen. The disease does not spread from person to person and there is no risk of infection from being near an infected individual.
Preventing West Nile fever involves avoiding mosquito bites through the use of repellents, nets on windows and fans to keep mosquitoes away. There is no specific treatment for the disease and most cases are managed through symptom relief. Individuals with chronic illnesses like cancer infants and the elderly are at higher risk of developing severe illness while animals like dogs and cats are not known to transmit the virus to humans.