WHO Certifies Egypt as Malaria-Free After Century-Long Effort

Egypt's successful malaria eradication marks a historic public health achievement, inspiring other nations in the region.

The World Health Organization has declared Egypt malaria-free, making it the third country in the Eastern Mediterranean Region to achieve this status.
Egypt's journey to malaria elimination began in the 1920s, with significant efforts to reduce mosquito breeding and human-mosquito contact.
The certification requires proof that indigenous malaria transmission has been halted for at least three consecutive years and that the country can prevent its re-establishment.
Malaria, which has affected Egypt since ancient times, saw cases peak during World War II and after the construction of the Aswan Dam in the 1960s.
Globally, 44 countries and one territory have been certified malaria-free, highlighting ongoing challenges as the disease still claims over 600,000 lives annually, primarily in Africa.