Israeli Health Expert Addresses Global Concerns Over Plague Outbreak
Prof. Hagai Levine discussed global plague concerns on 103fm, noting that while classified as a bioterrorism threat, the risk of international spread remains low.
Prof. Hagai Levine, chairman of the Association of Public Health Physicians, addressed concerns regarding the potential spread of the plague globally in an interview with 103fm radio.
The Threat of the Plague Today
"The plague may have faded from public view, but it is not surprising because the plague still exists in the world, there are cases and quite a few of them," Levine said. "We are not talking about the same plague that killed millions in Europe in the Middle Ages, but the plague still exists and, according to the Americans, it is classified as a Class A pathogen that can be used for bioterrorism."
"Right today, the World Health Organization addressed the issue and estimated the risk of spread outside of Russia as very low. I don't know, maybe the Americans know something we don't, or they have other or political considerations to address it this way," Levine noted.
Research Accidents and Biological Risks
Levine pointed out the uncertainty surrounding a reported death from a pulmonary illness suspected to be the plague in a female worker. The worker was employed at a research institute dealing with biological agents, including the plague. Amid the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine, reports of accidents and manipulations by the Russians have raised concerns and uncertainties regarding the true nature of the incident.
Preparedness in Israel
Levine emphasized that while natural spread or bioterrorism involving pathogens like the plague or anthrax are scenarios Israel must prepare for, there is currently no apparent public health threat to the world from this specific incident, provided Russia is not hiding anything.
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Pneumonic Plague: The most dangerous and contagious form, transmitted through close contact with high mortality rates.
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Treatment: Modern antibiotics are effective, unlike in the Middle Ages, and proper public health measures can contain the disease.
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Local Shortages: Levine warned of a severe shortage of skilled public health physicians and specialized laboratories in Israel.
