Egypt Declared Malaria-Free by WHO After Century-Long Battle

Egypt has made history by becoming malaria-free, as certified by the World Health Organization (WHO) . This achievement marks the end of a disease that has plagued the country since ancient times, with malaria being detected as far back as 4000 B.C.E. in Egypt .

The WHO grants this certification to countries that have proven, beyond reasonable doubt, that the chain of indigenous malaria transmission by Anopheles mosquitoes has been interrupted for at least three consecutive years . Egypt has demonstrated its capacity to prevent the re-establishment of transmission, a crucial requirement for maintaining its malaria-free status.

Egypt’s Journey to Malaria Elimination

Egypt’s efforts to control malaria began in the 1920s, with measures such as banning rice and crop cultivation near homes to reduce human-mosquito contact . Despite setbacks during World War II, when malaria cases spiked to over three million, the country persevered and introduced campaigns using insecticides like DDT.

The construction of the Aswan Dam in the 1960s presented new challenges, but Egypt collaborated with Sudan to mitigate the malaria threat through rigorous vector control and public health surveillance . By 2001, malaria was firmly under control, and the Ministry of Health and Population set its sights on elimination.

A Truly Historic Achievement

WHO Chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus hailed Egypt’s certification as “truly historic” and a testament to the country’s commitment to rid itself of this ancient scourge . Egypt’s Health Minister Khaled Abdel Ghaffar emphasized that this achievement marks the beginning of a new phase, requiring sustained efforts to maintain high standards for surveillance, diagnosis, and treatment.

Egypt joins 43 other countries and one territory that have achieved malaria-free status globally . This milestone serves as an inspiration to other countries in the region and demonstrates what’s possible with determination and effective healthcare systems.