Israel Isolates Two Suspected Ebola Cases Following DRC Outbreak
The Ministry of Health is investigating two suspected Ebola cases in individuals returning from the DRC, as global outbreaks prompt heightened screening and travel advisories.
The Ministry of Health has reported that two individuals recently returned from the Democratic Republic of Congo are under medical observation for suspected Ebola infection. Both patients developed symptoms, including fever, immediately upon arrival in the country.
Following standard protocols for high-risk infectious diseases, the patients have been placed in strict isolation. One individual was admitted to the Sheba Medical Center, while the second was transferred to the Sourasky Medical Center (Ichilov), both designated as specialized facilities for handling potential Ebola cases.
The Ministry of Health is currently conducting an epidemiological investigation to trace relevant contacts. Officials emphasized that individuals who have not been contacted by health authorities are not required to take any action at this time.
While systemic preparations remain in place across the healthcare system following the outbreak in the DRC, the ministry confirmed that no confirmed cases have been diagnosed in Israel to date. Guidelines have been distributed to medical teams, early detection mechanisms established for arriving passengers, and dedicated laboratory testing protocols deployed.
Travel Advisory and Prevention Measures
The ministry reiterated that Ebola is transmitted through direct contact with symptomatic individuals, bodily fluids, deceased persons, contaminated objects, or infected animals. Suspected infections are evaluated according to strict international protocols.
Travelers returning from the DRC who develop a fever exceeding 38 degrees Celsius or unusual symptoms within 21 days of their stay are urged to remain in home isolation, avoid contact with others, and contact the "Kol HaBriut" hotline at *5400 for instructions without visiting medical facilities in person without prior coordination.
Global Context and New US Regulations
Authorities advise avoiding non-essential travel to affected provinces in the DRC and neighboring countries, as well as reconsidering trips to Kenya and Nigeria. Travelers heading to these regions should consult a travel clinic and adhere to strict precautionary measures.
Last week, the ministry updated its advisories as confirmed Ebola cases in the DRC surpassed 9,800, with at least 4,750 fatalities. Additionally, new mandatory reporting requirements from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) took effect, enabling US authorities to track travelers who visited the outbreak zone via connecting flights.
