Breaking Update
Rabies Dogs in Yiftach, Givat Arnon, Tapuach; 7 Exposed
Rabies confirmed in stray dogs in Yiftach, Givat Arnon, and Tapuach, Samaria. Seven individuals exposed to a rabid dog in Yiftach are undergoing preventive.
Description of the animals: The Ministry of Health reports a small brown-and-white stray dog of the Jack Russell breed infected with rabies in the community of Yiftach in the Upper Galilee. Seven people who were exposed to the dog were referred to receive preventive rabies treatment.
In addition, the Ministry of Health reports a brown female dog infected with rabies that was found dead in the community of Tapuach in Samaria, and a brown male dog that attacked other dogs in Givat Arnon in Samaria and was found to be infected with rabies. The report about the infected dogs was received today, December 21, 2025.
We ask anyone who had contact, or whose pets had contact in the affected areas, with the infected animals or with a stray animal to contact the health bureau closest to their place of residence to consider receiving preventive treatment.
- In case of exposure to the rabies-infected dog in the community of Yiftach between December 3, 2025, and December 17, 2025 (inclusive), urgently contact the Safed Health Bureau at 04-6994257 or 04-6994200.
- In case of exposure to rabies-infected dogs in Samaria between December 5, 2025, and December 20, 2025 (inclusive), urgently contact the Petah Tikva District Health Bureau at 03-9051818.
After working hours and during the weekend, go to the emergency department at a hospital.
The Ministry of Health asks:
- Parents of children: Check with your children whether they had contact with suspicious animals and urgently contact the health bureau.
- Pet owners: Contact your municipal veterinarian to verify your pet’s vaccination status.
The Ministry of Health reminds anyone who was bitten or scratched by an animal to immediately wash the affected area with running water and soap, disinfect it with disinfectants, and contact the health bureau to check whether preventive rabies treatment is needed.
- Guidelines after an injury from an animal suspected of having rabies
