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An Israeli man was charged on Monday with spreading coronavirus in what looks to be the country's first case of its kind.
The Southern District Attorney's Office filed an indictment against Yochai Hadad, 24, from Moshav Brachia near Be'er Sheva for knowingly spreading the virus.
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Illustrative: Police officer detains man who violated quarantine
(Photo: Israel Police)
According to the prosecution, Haddad was diagnosed with coronavirus on September 24 and was ordered by health officials to remain at home in isolation. A week later, however, he violated quarantine and went to a party in Moshav Hodiya near Ashkelon, even though he knew he could infect others.
According to the indictment, filed with Magistrates' Court in Be'er Sheva, Hadad began experiencing symptoms on September 20 and subsequently underwent a coronavirus test on September 24. On September 25, he was informed that he indeed has contracted the pathogen.
On October 1, Haddad contacted his doctor and asked her if he could come out of isolation but she replied that it was still too early, and he should remain in quarantine and not meet with people.
Haddad, nevertheless, left his home around 11pm and went to the party attended by approximately 20 people, some of whom did not wear masks.
"The defendant attended the party even though he knew he was sick with coronavirus and that he could infect other participants, endangering their lives," said the indictment.