On October 20, 2024, the WHO certified Egypt as malaria-free, marking a significant public health achievement following nearly 100 years of efforts. This milestone is celebrated by both Egyptian leaders and the international community as a testament to successful health initiatives and sustained commitment to public health. Egypt becomes the third country in the Eastern Mediterranean Region to achieve this status, joining the ranks of 44 countries worldwide in the fight against malaria.
On October 20, 2024, the World Health Organization (WHO) officially certified Egypt as malaria-free, recognizing a remarkable achievement in public health for a nation with over 100 million residents. This certification concludes nearly a century of dedicated efforts by the Egyptian authorities and citizens to eradicate a disease that has plagued the nation since ancient times. Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, highlighted the historical significance of this milestone, stating that the elimination of malaria marks not only a victory for Egypt but also serves as an inspirational example for other nations battling endemic diseases.
Egypt joins the ranks of the United Arab Emirates and Morocco as the third country in the WHO Eastern Mediterranean Region to receive such certification since 2010. As of now, a total of 44 countries and one territory worldwide have achieved the status of malaria-free. Dr. Khaled Abdel Ghaffar, Deputy Prime Minister of Egypt, emphasized that this certification represents a new beginning, indicating ongoing efforts required to maintain the country’s malaria-free status through vigilant healthcare practices and robust public health strategies.
The journey to malaria elimination in Egypt can be traced back thousands of years, with archaeological evidence indicating the disease’s historical presence as far back as 4000 B.C. Structures were implemented to combat malaria in the 1920s when rice cultivation near residences was prohibited. By the 1930s, severe malaria cases prompted Egypt to designate malaria as a notifiable disease, leading to the establishment of its first malaria control station.
Despite significant setbacks during World War II, when cases surged past three million due to population movement and lack of medical resources, Egypt fortified its response with extensive health initiatives and a robust workforce. The completion of the Aswan Dam in 1969 posed additional challenges, prompting collaborative efforts with neighboring Sudan to enhance vector control. Ultimately, by 2001, malaria cases were under control, and initiatives were set in place to avoid re-establishment. Malaria diagnosis and treatment became universally accessible, and training for health professionals ensured rapid case detection across the nation.
The certification process for malaria-free status involves substantial evidence of disrupted transmission chains for three consecutive years and the ability to prevent resurgence. Egypt’s commitment to malaria elimination reflects a broader public health accomplishment, positioning the country as a beacon of hope and a model for other endemic regions.
The certification of Egypt as malaria-free by the World Health Organization is a landmark event in the global fight against malaria, particularly for a country with such a long history of the disease. This achievement culminates from nearly a century of efforts dedicated to health systems strengthening, disease surveillance, public health interventions, and community engagement. Egypt’s health initiatives, resilience in combating outbreaks, and collaboration with neighboring countries have been instrumental in reaching this certification, which emphasizes the importance of sustained vigilance and resource investment in health care.
In conclusion, Egypt’s certification as malaria-free by the World Health Organization marks a historic public health achievement and offers hope to other endemic countries. The country’s extensive efforts over the past century to eradicate the disease exemplify a robust public health response involving community participation, strategic vector control, and accessible healthcare. Continued diligence and innovation will be essential to maintaining this hard-won status, ensuring that malaria remains a chapter of history rather than a concern of the future.
Original Source: www.emro.who.int
