Israel Suffers Spike In COVID-19 Cases Of Delta Variant Particularly Among Schoolchildren

JERUSALEM (VINnews) — Israel is suffering a steep rise in cases of Covid-19 , particularly among schoolchildren, with the main affected areas being the towns of Binyamina and Modiin.  164 students have tested positive for COVID-19, and 16 staff, according to a report by the Kann television station.

Health authorities in Israel believe that up to 70 percent of the new COVID-19 cases are the Delta variant of the coronavirus, (known in Israel as the Indian variant) which is more widespread than previously thought. Reports from around the world indicate that the variant is one of the main factors in other countries as well and is apparently resistant to vaccinations as well.

Experts say that the vast majority of the new cases are being found in those aged 12-15, leading to a sharp rise in vaccination of children, which has recently been authorized by Israel although not yet recommended by health authorities.

Education Minister Yifat Shasha Biton says that “we are closely following the figures. The ministry is providing emergency services to places where outbreaks are being identified, including daycares and summer schools, and in preparation for the next school year.”

Figures published earlier today showed 48 new cases on Sunday and 57 new cases between midnight and 9 a.m. on Monday, a significant spike after the country managed to nearly eradicate the disease over the last two months.

Authorities blame those coming into Israel as a major factor, though official figures show that only 21 of 129 cases found since June 18 came from travelers. On Tuesday Prime Minister Naftali Bennett visited Ben Gurion airport and advised Israelis not to travel abroad at present and to vaccinate children aged 12-15 in order to deal with the outbreak. The prime minister also told people in affected areas to wear masks and advised people in closed spaces around the country to wear masks as well, although this is not at present a requirement.

“Once we lifted restrictions, it was clear that local outbreaks were just a matter of time,” Prof. Ron Balicer, who advises the government on coronavirus policy, told Kann. “If we see spread from community to community in the next few days, we may need to look at more measures to halt the spread.”