However, unlike the outbreak of the South American Andes strain currently drawing attention aboard the MV Hondius cruise ship, the Israeli was infected with a European strain of the virus.

The first case of hantavirus has been diagnosed in Israel, Maariv learned on Thursday.

The patient is believed to have been infected during a stay in Eastern Europe several months ago and sought medical attention after developing symptoms associated with the disease.

At this stage, details about the patient, their place of residence, and the medical center where they were diagnosed cannot be published.

According to information obtained by Maariv, the patient underwent an antibody test after symptoms appeared, which showed exposure to hantavirus. A later PCR (polymerase chain reaction) test was conducted to detect the virus’s genetic material, confirming the infection.At the moment, the patient’s condition is stable; they have not required intensive care or strict isolation but are being kept under medical observation. The case has been reported to the Health Ministry.

Read More: First case of hantavirus diagnosed in Israel after patient’s visit to Eastern Europe