Israel Reports Second Suspected Ebola Case

Israel's Health Ministry announced on Sunday, June 21, that a second suspected case of Ebola has been reported. The individual is a citizen who recently returned from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

Laboratory tests are currently underway to confirm the infection. The patient, who arrived back in Israel two days prior to the announcement, sought medical attention after experiencing symptoms such as fever, headache, and diarrhea. They have been transferred to Sheba Tel Hashomer Medical Center, a specialized facility for handling dangerous infectious diseases.

The ministry emphasized that Ebola infection has not yet been confirmed and that test results are anticipated in the coming days. An epidemiological investigation is also in progress to identify contacts and explore any possible connections between this case and a previously reported suspected case. Contact tracing is ongoing, but individuals not yet contacted by the ministry are advised that no action is required from them at this stage.

This announcement follows closely on the heels of Israel's first suspected Ebola case, reported just two days earlier, involving another man who had also recently traveled to the DRC. Test results for that individual, who was tested at Rambam Medical Center in Haifa, were still pending as of Sunday.

Health authorities have reminded the public that Ebola is not airborne and spreads through direct contact with an infected person exhibiting symptoms or through exposure to bodily fluids. Measures have been put in place, including the distribution of personal protective equipment to medical centers and the establishment of early detection systems for travelers returning from affected regions. A dedicated laboratory system for identifying Ebola infections is also operational. The ministry advises against nonessential travel to areas with active Ebola transmission, particularly the DRC and Uganda, and recommends travelers seek guidance from travel clinics.