CAIRO: The World Health Organization (WHO) has announced that Egypt is now officially malaria-free, marking a historic accomplishment after decades of dedicated efforts to eradicate the disease. This significant milestone is attributed to the sustained and comprehensive strategies employed by the Egyptian government to combat malaria, which has been a health challenge in the country for over 12 years.
According to Kuwait News Agency, malaria was once prevalent in rural and agricultural areas of Egypt, where mosquitoes found breeding grounds in stagnant water. The Egyptian government tackled the issue through a multifaceted approach, including insecticide use, swamp drainage, health awareness campaigns, immediate treatment of cases, and continuous monitoring. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus hailed Egypt’s malaria-free certification as a historical success, attributing it to the commitment of both the Egyptian people and government.
Egyptian Health Minister Khaled Abdel Ghaffar emphasized that
receiving the malaria elimination certificate is the beginning of a new phase, highlighting the importance of maintaining high standards of surveillance, diagnosis, and treatment to prevent re-establishment of the disease. WHO awards the malaria elimination certificate to countries that demonstrate the cessation of local malaria transmission for at least three consecutive years and show the capability to prevent its return.
Egypt is the third country in the WHO Eastern Mediterranean Region to achieve malaria-free status, following the UAE and Morocco. Globally, 44 countries and one region have reached this milestone since 2010. In a statement to KUNA, Egyptian Presidential Advisor for Health and Prevention Affairs, Dr. Mohamed Awad Tag Al-Din, described the certification as a major achievement, highlighting the strength of Egypt’s healthcare system and the commitment of President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi to preventive healthcare.
The history of malaria in Egypt dates back to around 4000 BC, with genetic evidenc
e found in mummies. Efforts to reduce malaria began in the 1920s and intensified in the 1930s when the disease affected a significant portion of the population. Despite challenges during World War II, Egypt managed to control outbreaks through the establishment of treatment centers and a strong healthcare workforce.
By 2001, Egypt had effectively controlled malaria and focused on preventing its resurgence. In 2014, a small outbreak in Aswan was swiftly contained, showcasing the country’s capability in managing the disease. Malaria diagnosis and treatment are available free of charge to all residents, with trained healthcare professionals across the country ensuring effective detection and screening.