A four-year-old boy from northern Israel has died from influenza, according to the Health Ministry. The child, who was previously healthy and not vaccinated against the flu, arrived at the hospital in critical condition and passed away shortly after.

This marks the fifth child death from influenza complications in Israel this year, with most of the affected children not having received the flu vaccine. Health officials report that influenza cases continue to rise across the country.

The Ministry is urging the public to get vaccinated, noting that while the vaccine does not guarantee complete protection, it significantly reduces the severity of illness. Vaccines are available free of charge at health maintenance organizations.

As additional precautions, the Ministry recommends mask-wearing for at-risk groups in enclosed spaces and gatherings, as well as for medical staff and visitors in elder care facilities.