Egypt has been officially recognized as malaria-free by the World Health Organization (WHO).

This designation makes Egypt the third nation in the Eastern Mediterranean region to achieve this status, following Morocco and the United Arab Emirates. In total, 44 countries and one territory have received this certification.

A country is deemed malaria-free by the WHO when it can demonstrate, with a high degree of certainty, that there has been no transmission of the disease for three consecutive years prior to certification, specifically through the Anopheles mosquitoes, commonly referred to as marsh mosquitoes. Additionally, countries must provide evidence of effective preventive measures.

“This certification of Egypt as malaria-free is a significant milestone and reflects the dedication of both the Egyptian people and government to eliminate this ancient disease,” stated WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus. “I extend my congratulations to Egypt for this remarkable achievement, which serves as an inspiration to other nations in the region and illustrates what can be accomplished with adequate resources and tools.”

Malaria was first identified in Egypt as early as 4,000 B.C.E., according to the WHO, although systematic efforts to control the disease began in the 1920s. During that period, Egypt prohibited the cultivation of rice and other crops in proximity to residential areas.

The first malaria control station in Egypt was established in 1930, at a time when the disease had a prevalence rate of approximately 40% and was classified as a “notifiable disease,” according to the WHO.

During World War II, there were over 3 million reported cases, but these were managed through the establishment of additional treatment centers and the extensive recruitment of healthcare professionals.

In 1969, cases surged again due to the construction of the Aswan Dam, which created standing water that facilitated mosquito breeding. A subsequent increase in cases occurred in Aswan in 2014, but these were effectively controlled early on, as reported by the WHO.

Malaria testing and diagnosis are provided at no cost to all residents of Egypt.

"Obtaining the malaria elimination certificate today marks not the conclusion of our efforts, but the commencement of a new chapter," stated Egypt's Deputy Prime Minister Khaled Abdel Ghaffar. "We must now dedicate ourselves to preserving our success by upholding the highest standards in surveillance, diagnosis, and treatment, as well as in integrated vector management and ensuring a swift and effective response to imported cases."