The mosquitos were caught in traps placed in northern, southern and central regions, and around Haifa.

Local authorities were instructed to expand their monitoring, explaining that the traps were placed randomly around the country. Even if infected mosquitos have not been caught in a particular area, “this does not guarantee that the area is free of mosquitos,” the ministry said.

According to the Health Ministry, as of Sunday, 566 patients in Israel have been diagnosed with the virus. Since the outbreak of the West Nile virus in June, 38 people have died, the ministry added.

West Nile Virus is a mosquito-borne virus that causes West Nile fever. Most carriers of the virus never develop symptoms. About 20% of those infected have symptoms of varying severity, including fever, general malaise, headaches or general body aches. Neurological complications appear in less than 1% of those infected.

There is no cure for West Nile virus and patients are typically given pain relievers. In severe situations, patients may be intubated.

In Israel, cases of West Nile Virus tend to rise between June and November.

The Ministry called on the public to use mosquito repellents and fans.