Breaking Update
Measles case on Newark-Tel Aviv flight
A measles patient flew on El Al flight LY026 from Newark to Ben Gurion Airport on Feb 15-16, 2026. The Health Ministry urges passengers, especially pregnant.
The Ministry of Health reports on a measles patient who flew from Newark to Ben Gurion Airport. According to the epidemiological investigation conducted by the Jerusalem District Health Bureau of the Ministry of Health, the passenger flew on an El Al flight, flight number LY026, from Newark to Ben Gurion Airport on Sunday, February 15, 2026, which departed at 21:15 local time, and landed at Ben Gurion Airport on Monday, February 16, 2026, at 14:30.
Passengers who were on this flight are requested to ensure they are vaccinated according to the Ministry of Health’s recommendations:
The Ministry of Health recommends that pregnant women who are not vaccinated with two doses, immunocompromised individuals, and infants under one year of age who were on this flight – contact the health bureau in their area of residence to consider receiving passive immunization against measles.
The Ministry calls on individuals who do not feel well and/or suffer from the symptoms detailed below, not to attend mass events and endanger their families and their immediate surroundings.
The Ministry of Health emphasizes that a person who has been in contact with a measles patient is required to continue with tests and vaccinations according to the Ministry of Health’s guidelines and to avoid public places.
If there is a need to go to a clinic or emergency room, please coordinate your arrival and inform the staff upon arrival at the medical institution.
Measles is a highly contagious viral disease characterized by fever, general malaise, runny nose, and rash, and can be associated with severe and even life-threatening complications.
The Ministry emphasizes the importance of routine vaccinations against diseases such as measles, some of which can cause severe complications and death.
To check vaccination status and schedule an appointment for vaccination, you can contact the health funds or the Kol HaBriut hotline at *5400. The hotline is active on Sundays-Thursdays between 08:00–20:00 and on Fridays between 08:00–13:00.
