On July 1, the Israeli Ministry of Health reported that 87 people have been diagnosed with West Nile fever. Additionally, there are suspicions of infection in another 10 patients, pending final diagnosis after receiving test results. Unfortunately, seven patients have died from the disease, with no change in mortality rate since the last data update on June 28.
The average age of the patients is 73 years old, with the youngest being just eight years and the oldest being 98 years old. All cases of West Nile fever have been reported in central Israel. The disease is caused by the bite of an infected mosquito and has been known to occur in Israel for some time. Unlike some diseases, it is not transmitted from person to person.
Approximately 80% of those infected with West Nile fever are asymptomatic, while the other 20% may experience various symptoms such as fever, fatigue, headaches, and body pain. Neurological complications are rare but can occur in less than 1% of those infected. However, older adults and individuals with weakened immune systems are at greater risk for developing these complications.
To reduce the risk of infection, residents should take precautions against mosquito bites such as applying insect repellent to their skin and clothing when outdoors or sleeping indoors at night when windows are open. They should also wear protective clothing such as long-sleeved shirts and pants while outside during peak mosquito season (from April through October). Mosquito-repelling accessories such as head nets and screen doors can also help prevent mosquito bites when sleeping indoors at night when windows are open.
Residents are also encouraged to report any potential mosquito breeding hazards to local authorities such as identifying standing water sources that act as breeding grounds for mosquitoes. By taking these precautions together and working closely with local authorities, communities can reduce the risk of West Nile fever infection.
In conclusion, West Nile fever is a serious illness caused by a bite from an infected mosquito that can lead to neurological complications in some cases. While most people who contract the disease do not experience symptoms or severe health issues like neurological complications; however, older adults and individuals with weakened immune systems are more susceptible to these complications.
Therefore residents should take precautions against mosquito bites by wearing protective clothing or using insect repellent or accessories while outside during peak seasons or sleeping indoors at night when windows are open.
Furthermore residents should report any potential breeding hazards they find around their neighborhoods so authorities could take necessary actions to control them effectively.