Possible Ebola Case Under Investigation in Israel’s Health System

Israel’s Health Ministry updated the public today (*Motzaei Shabbat*) that a person suspected of having Ebola is being treated in isolation, in accordance with the professional protocols established for dealing with highly contagious diseases that carry significant risk. It was learned that this is a traveler who returned from Congo, Africa, where the virus has spread widely.

The health system said that "to clarify the suspicion, a series of laboratory tests is being carried out, in accordance with the professional protocols accepted in Israel and around the world. Completing the review and receiving a final result are expected to take approximately 48 more hours, for clinical reasons and in accordance with medical protocols."

The Health Ministry emphasized that "at this stage, this is only a suspicion, and no confirmed case of Ebola has been diagnosed in Israel. In accordance with protocol, the Health Ministry is conducting an epidemiological investigation to identify relevant contacts. The ministry will reach out directly and personally to anyone for whom this is necessary. Anyone who does not receive contact from the Health Ministry is not required at this stage to take any action."

It should be noted that the Ebola virus is not transmitted through the air, and infection occurs through direct contact with a sick person showing symptoms, or with blood, bodily fluids, or secretions. The Health Ministry is continuing to monitor the incident and update the public on an ongoing basis as needed.