Five babies attending the same daycare facility in a Negev kibbutz have been admitted to Soroka Medical Center in Beersheva. All of the babies presented with high fever, diarrhea and signs of aridity. Two of them have developed a rare complication involving an intestinal infection that produces bacteria that attack various body systems. The complications have also involved their renal output. The two were in an intensive care unit with one showing marked improvement and moved to a pediatric bed and the second is listed in moderate condition, still in ICU.

Three other toddlers are not showing signs of the rare infection. They remain under observation.

Chief of Pediatric Intensive Care Medicine Dr. Tzachi Lazar explains “This is a disease manifested by destruction of red blood cells and platelets, as well as renal system involvement along with other bodily systems. Treatment is supportive as well as follow-up and monitoring.”

The cases have been reported to the appropriate Health Ministry officials. It appears the source of the infection is the kibbutz’s petting zoo.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)