.svg)
As health officials monitor an Ebola outbreak in Central Africa, the Hadassah Medical Organization (HMO) is among five hospitals in Israel designated to receive and treat suspected cases. **
In a recent interview with The Times of Israel, Prof. Jacob Strahilevitz, head of the Department of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases at HMO, explained that while the likelihood of the current Ebola strain reaching Israel remains very low, hospitals are taking all necessary precautions to ensure they are prepared.
The current outbreak – primarily in the Democratic Republic of Congo – involves the Bundibugyo strain of the Ebola virus, for which there is currently no approved vaccine. Strahilevitz said that designated hospitals, including Hadassah hospitals, have received protective equipment and have protocols in place to safeguard patients and healthcare teams.
Strahilevitz also highlighted the importance of public awareness and early reporting of symptoms among travelers returning from affected regions. While other infections are far more likely, he emphasized that preparedness remains essential when responding to emerging infectious diseases.
From monitoring global outbreaks to preparing for potential cases at home, HMO's infectious disease specialists are at the forefront of efforts to keep Israel prepared and protect public health.
**As of this publication date, there has never been a confirmed case of Ebola in Israel, according to Israel’s Health Ministry.
Read the full Times of Israel article here.
