Another Suspected Case of Ebola in Israel: Patient Transferred to Isolation at Ichilov Hospital

The Israeli Ministry of Health reported on Monday evening that another individual who recently returned from the Democratic Republic of Congo is suspected of having contracted Ebola. The patient, who arrived in the country a few days ago, sought medical attention after developing a fever and other symptoms.

He has been transferred to the Ichilov Medical Center and will remain in isolation until the suspicion is clarified. The Ministry of Health emphasizes that this is currently only a suspicion and that no confirmed case of Ebola has ever been diagnosed in Israel.

Laboratory tests are being conducted, with results expected in the coming days. Simultaneously, the Ministry of Health is completing an epidemiological investigation to identify individuals who may have had relevant contact with the patient. The ministry clarified that those who have not been directly contacted by health authorities are not required to take any action at this time.

This incident follows recent similar alerts in Israel amid the ongoing outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo. In recent months, the Ministry of Health has been monitoring the situation and providing guidance to hospitals and medical teams on protocols for handling suspected cases.

Transmission and Guidelines

Ebola is not transmitted through the air. Infection occurs through direct contact with a symptomatic patient or through contact with their blood, body fluids, or secretions.

The Ministry of Health strongly advises against non-essential travel to areas with active outbreaks, particularly the Democratic Republic of Congo. Travelers who have returned from the region and develop a fever or unusual symptoms within 21 days of their stay are instructed to:

1. Remain at home and avoid contact with others.

2. Contact the 'Kol HaBriut' call center at *5400.

3. Inform the representative of their recent travel to an area with Ebola morbidity.