A security guard working at the neonatal department at Ichilov Hospital has been diagnosed with measles, the Health Ministry confirmed on Wednesday, prompting concerns of potential exposure to the virus for newborns and their parents.
According to the Health Ministry, the employee was on duty on Saturday, February 14, from 6:52 p.m. to about 7:30 p.m. and on Sunday, February 15, from 2:45 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Upon receiving the report, the Health Ministry coordinated with its local offices and the hospital to identify and contact all affected families. Parents have been notified personally and are being provided with guidelines for further investigations and preventive treatment.
The Health Ministry is advising anyone who has been exposed to the virus to check their immunity status, complete any necessary vaccinations, and avoid public places during the incubation period. If medical attention is required, individuals should contact a healthcare facility in advance and inform the medical staff of potential measles exposure.
Ichilov Hospital stated that the exposure level is low because the employee was not directly in the nursery and wore a mask while working. As a precautionary measure, the hospital is assessing each case individually to determine whether vaccination or other preventive measures are necessary.
What to know about the measles virus
Measles, one of the most contagious viral diseases, spreads through the air via droplets released when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The virus can linger in closed environments, even after the infected individual has left the area.
The incubation period typically lasts about ten days, after which symptoms such as fever, weakness, runny nose, cough, and conjunctivitis appear. A characteristic rash follows, starting on the face and spreading across the body.
Although most people fully recover, measles can lead to severe complications, including pneumonia, encephalitis, and neurological damage. Infants and unvaccinated individuals face a higher risk of complications.
Vaccination remains the most effective method of preventing measles outbreaks. In Israel, the measles vaccine is administered as part of routine childhood vaccinations, which are given in two doses and offer long-term protection. In cases of exposure, vaccination or antibody administration may be offered, depending on age and immune status.
Individuals who are unsure of their vaccination status or need to schedule a vaccination can contact their health insurance provider or the Health Ministry’s Voice of Health hotline at *5400. The hotline operates Sunday to Thursday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. and on Fridays from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
The Health Ministry emphasized the importance of ensuring routine vaccinations are up to date.