Israel confirms first West Nile virus case of 2026 summer season

Israel has confirmed its first case of West Nile virus for the 2026 summer season, diagnosed in a Tel Aviv man. The virus is transmitted to humans via mosquito bites after the mosquitoes have fed on infected birds. Professor Sigal Sadetzki, head of the Health Ministry’s Public Health Services Division, stated, "The disease is usually mild or causes no symptoms, but in rare cases it can lead to severe illness, including encephalitis or meningitis." Despite the confirmed case, routine monitoring has not yet detected mosquitoes carrying the virus. Authorities recommend eliminating standing water, using repellents, and wearing protective clothing, particularly between June and November when mosquito populations typically increase due to warm, humid conditions.