About 1,700 patients have been diagnosed with measles in Israel since the recent outbreak, the Health Ministry announced on Friday.
According to statistical models, there are likely thousands more, with the exact number being closer to 5,000 cases.
The areas currently defined as outbreak zones are Jerusalem, Beit Shemesh, Bnei Brak, Harish, Modi’in Illit, Nof Hagalil, Kiryat Gat, Ashdod, and Safed.
According to Health Ministry data, 468 patients have been hospitalized, 93% of them being children.
Forty-one patients were admitted to intensive care units, including 36 children, and seven patients were connected to life support machines.
As of today, 23 measles patients remain hospitalized, seven of them in intensive care, and one is still connected to life support.
Since the beginning of the vaccination campaign in May 2025, there have been six deaths, four of whom arrived at hospitals in cardiac arrest.
According to the ministry, the vaccination coverage rate for one dose of the measles vaccine among children aged 1 - 6 stands at 88% this year, meaning about 123,880 children in this age group have not received their first dose.
Is it dangerous to travel abroad?
Currently, there are no restrictions on international travel, according to the Health Ministry. However, it recommends that all travelers be vaccinated against measles in accordance with travel health guidelines.
Before traveling abroad, it is advised to complete two doses of the measles vaccine. If exposed to the virus while abroad, travelers should consult the local health authority.