Mosquitoes carrying the West Nile virus were identified in central and southern Israel, according to a report Thursday by the Environmental Protection Ministry. According to the Health Ministry, Since the start of the year, two people infected with the virus have died.
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The Environmental Protection Ministry identified the mosquitoes through traps. "Heat and humidity increase mosquito activity, so with climate change, more and more people are exposed to mosquito bites," Dr. Gal Zagron, Head of Pest Control and Pesticides Division at the ministry said. "Through simple actions like reducing watering, eliminating standing water, and using nets, fans, and insect repellents, it's possible to prevent mosquito bites and their impact on yards and homes. The ministry monitors mosquito populations in open areas and alerts local authorities responsible for preventing and dealing with pest infestations."
West Nile Fever is a disease caused by a virus primarily found in birds and transmitted to humans and other animals through mosquito bites that feed on infected birds. The incubation period of the disease, from the time of the mosquito bite to the development of symptoms, lasts approximately 5 to 21 days, and the illness typically lasts for 3 to 6 days.
In most cases, West Nile Fever is a mild disease, similar to the flu. The illness is typically characterized by symptoms such as fever, headache, weakness, joint and muscle pain, inflammation of the eye membrane, skin rash, and occasionally nausea and diarrhea. Rare complications may include acute inflammation of the brain or its surrounding tissue, and in very rare instances, the disease can be fatal.