Mosquitoes carrying West Nile Virus reported in central ‘Israel’: Hebrew media

A 70-year-old ‘Israeli’ man has died after contracting West Nile virus, one of 10 confirmed cases in ‘Israel’ this season, the Health Ministry announced on Thursday. 

The patient developed symptoms in mid-July and was hospitalized due to complications from the disease.

Mosquitoes carrying the virus have been captured for the first time this year in central ‘Israel’, including in Tel Aviv-Yafo, Tayibe, Tira, Qalansawe, and the Lev HaSharon Regional Council, according to a joint update from the Health Ministry and the Environmental Protection Ministry.

Infected mosquitoes had previously been detected in southern Israel earlier in 2026.

The Environmental Protection Ministry has instructed local authorities to expand prevention, monitoring, public information, and pest-control efforts.

“West Nile fever is a disease transmitted to humans through the bite of mosquitoes that feed on infected birds. In most cases, it is a mild disease without symptoms, but in rare cases, severe symptoms may also develop, such as inflammation of the brain or the membranes surrounding the brain. The risk of severe illness is higher among people aged 60 and over and people with underlying medical conditions, so it is particularly important to follow preventive measures,” said Prof. Sigal Sadetzki, head of the Health Ministry’s Public Health Division.

Dr. Shai Reicher, director of the Environmental Protection Ministry’s Pest and Pest Control Division, stated: “In recent days, mosquitoes carrying the West Nile Virus have been captured at several locations in central Israel. A mosquito carrying the virus can transmit it to a person through a bite, thereby causing illness. The ministry issued detailed instructions to local authorities to take immediate measures aimed at reducing the risk to human health. Alongside monitoring and pest control measures, the public also has an important role in reducing mosquito hazards.”

West Nile virus circulates among birds and is spread to humans by mosquito bites, primarily from Culex species.

It does not spread person-to-person.

Most infections are mild or asymptomatic, but severe neurological complications such as encephalitis or meningitis can occur, particularly in older adults and those with weakened immune systems.

There is no specific antiviral treatment or approved human vaccine; care is supportive.

‘Israel’ experienced a major outbreak in 2024 with more than 930 cases and around 73 deaths, linked in part to favorable weather for mosquito breeding.
Cases were far lower in 2025.