The Ministry of Health reported four new cases of measles diagnosed in Israel, bringing the total to 18 cases since December 2023. Most of those affected had not received proper measles vaccination.
The first new case involved a tourist arriving from Russia, who visited the emergency department of Barzilai Hospital from 8:30 PM on February 5 until 1:00 AM on February 6.
Another case involved a child from Holon, who had only received one dose of the vaccine and returned from Azerbaijan, presumably contracting measles there. The child visited the emergency room of Wolfson Hospital from 5:00 PM on February 9 to 4:00 AM on February 10.
The third case occurred when a person contracted measles from another patient while traveling on Egged bus route 12 in Kiryat Yam, Haifa district, boarding the bus at 12:00 PM.
The fourth patient is a young child from Nahariyya who received only one vaccination appropriate for their age.
If you were present in the aforementioned locations at the same time as the infected individuals and developed symptoms, ensure you have received the measles vaccine (two doses, one month apart) at one year of age.
If born before 1957 and had measles as a child, vaccination isn't necessary. Children under 6 years old who haven't been vaccinated should receive it at Tipat Halav, while those over 7 years old should complete vaccination at school, and adults at the health insurance office.
Check your children's vaccination status and make appointments by calling *5400 or contacting your pediatrician at the health insurance company.
Measles symptoms include high fever (up to 40.5°C), inflammation of the mouth and upper respiratory tract, conjunctivitis, a distinct skin rash, and general malaise. The incubation period is 7 to 18 days, usually 10 to 12 days. If you experience high fever or headaches, followed by a rash, seek medical attention.
