Egypt has officially been declared malaria-free by the World Health Organization (WHO), which is a major public health achievement for a nation of over 100 million people. The accomplishment comes after nearly a century of work by the Egyptian government and populace to eradicate a disease that has been in the nation since prehistoric times.
The WHO Director-General, Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, stated, “Malaria is as old as Egyptian civilization itself, but the disease that plagued pharaohs now belongs to its history and not its future.” Egypt’s designation as malaria-free is a historic achievement that demonstrates the Egyptian government and people’s unwavering dedication to eradicating this long-standing affliction. I applaud Egypt for this accomplishment, which serves as a model for other nations in the area and demonstrates what can be accomplished with the appropriate resources and instruments.
After Morocco and the United Arab Emirates, Egypt is the third nation in the WHO Eastern Mediterranean Region to be certified as malaria-free and the first since 2010. 44 nations and 1 territory have accomplished this feat worldwide.
“Achieving the certificate of elimination of malaria today marks the start of a new chapter in the journey, not its conclusion. Now, to continue our success, we must work hard and carefully to uphold the highest standards for integrated vector control, surveillance, diagnosis, and treatment, as well as continue our efficient and quick reaction to imported cases. The continuation of our multisectoral efforts will be essential to maintaining Egypt’s malaria-free status, stated Egypt’s Deputy Prime Minister, H.E. Dr. Khaled Abdel Ghaffar.
“Under the direction of Egypt’s wise leadership, I reaffirm that we will proceed with enhancing our healthcare system and safeguarding the health of everyone in Egypt. This will remain a cornerstone in protecting the lives of all people living in and visiting Egypt.”
When a nation establishes beyond a reasonable doubt that the Anopheles mosquito-borne malaria transmission chain has been broken nationally for at least the preceding three years, the World Health Organization certifies the elimination of malaria. Additionally, a nation must exhibit its ability to stop the spread of disease.