Egypt has officially been certified malaria-free by the World Health Organization (WHO), a recognition described as “historic” after decades of persistent efforts. The achievement marks the culmination of nearly a century-long battle against the mosquito-borne disease, the BBC reported.
According to WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, malaria has afflicted Egypt since ancient times, but the disease “now belongs to its history.” Certification by the WHO requires countries to interrupt the transmission of malaria for at least three consecutive years. Despite global efforts, malaria continues to claim more than 600,000 lives annually, with most cases occurring in Africa.
In its official statement, the WHO praised the Egyptian government and its citizens for successfully eradicating the disease, which had been present in the region since the time of the pharaohs. Egypt now becomes the third country in the Eastern Mediterranean Region to receive malaria-free certification, following the United Arab Emirates and Morocco. Worldwide, 44 countries and one territory have achieved this status.
The WHO emphasized that although Egypt has reached this milestone, the journey does not end here. Vigilance is required to prevent the re-establishment of malaria transmission, and the WHO has urged Egypt to maintain its focus on disease surveillance and preventive measures.
Efforts to reduce mosquito-human contact in Egypt date back to the 1920s when restrictions were placed on rice cultivation near populated areas. These efforts were part of a larger strategy to control the breeding of malaria-carrying mosquitoes. Malaria, a disease caused by parasites transmitted through mosquito bites, remains a threat in some regions despite the development of vaccines. Prevention through mosquito control and monitoring is still regarded as the most effective strategy.
Health Minister Khaled Abdel Ghaffar emphasized that this certification represents the start of a new phase. “Receiving the malaria elimination certificate today is not the end of the journey,” he said. “We must now work tirelessly to sustain our achievement through ongoing vigilance, surveillance, and high standards for diagnosis and treatment.”
Egypt’s battle with malaria faced challenges throughout the 20th century. During World War II, malaria cases surged to over three million due to population displacement. In the 1960s, the construction of the Aswan Dam created standing water that became breeding grounds for mosquitoes, increasing the risk of outbreaks. However, by 2001, the disease was firmly under control, according to the WHO.
This certification places Egypt among a select group of nations that have successfully eradicated malaria, signaling both a triumph and a new responsibility to maintain the achievement.
(Input from various sources)
(Rehash/Ankur Deka/MSM)
