In recent weeks, Egypt has witnessed a noticeable rise in respiratory illnesses, sparking widespread public concern and prompting speculation about the emergence of a new virus in the country. Rumors circulating on social media have only fueled anxiety, with many fearing the possible arrival of the deadly Marburg virus. However, Egypt’s Minister of Health, Dr. Khaled Abdel Ghaffar, has firmly dismissed these claims and clarified the true cause behind the increasing number of respiratory cases.
Seasonal Flu Activity Behind the Surge
According to the Health Minister, the uptick in infections is directly linked to regular seasonal influenza patterns—not a new or unknown pathogen. Egypt, he explained, has simply returned to the pre-pandemic baseline seen in 2019, a year when flu viruses, including H1N1, circulated widely.
Dr. Abdel Ghaffar emphasized that the current influenza wave is typical for this time of year. Although the prevalence of H1N1 has risen more than usual, this increase is still considered within predictable seasonal behavior. “There is no new or strange virus in Egypt,” he stressed during a press conference held at the Ministry’s headquarters in the New Administrative Capital.
He also reiterated that Marburg virus—which many Egyptians feared had entered the country—has not been detected in Egypt at all. Every case recorded so far has shown mild symptoms lasting between four to six days, with no severe complications reported.
Flu Vaccine Offers Full Protection
The Health Minister underscored the effectiveness of the seasonal influenza vaccine currently available across the country. He confirmed that the vaccine provides full protection against the dominant viral strains circulating this winter. For this reason, he urged all citizens aged five years and older to get vaccinated as soon as possible.
“Egypt’s preventive health system is strong and fully supported by international organizations,” he stated, reassuring the public about the country's readiness to handle any potential outbreaks.
Extensive Preparedness and Monitoring Across the Country
The minister highlighted the scale of Egypt’s healthcare readiness, confirming the presence of more than 5,500 medical facilities nationwide dedicated to monitoring, reporting, and responding to infectious disease outbreaks. These facilities play a crucial role in maintaining national epidemiological stability.
During the most recent monitoring period, authorities investigated 424 public health alerts. Impressively, 95% of these reports turned out to be baseless rumors with no scientific foundation. This high percentage reflects widespread misinformation circulating online, which the ministry is actively working to dispel.
Warnings Against Misinformation
In his remarks, Dr. Abdel Ghaffar warned citizens not to fall victim to unverified information shared on social media platforms—especially claims suggesting the spread of new, dangerous viruses in schools. He confirmed that the Ministry of Health is operating round-the-clock awareness campaigns and misinformation countermeasures to keep the public accurately informed.
Additionally, he assured that strict and advanced quarantine procedures are applied at all entry points to prevent the entry of any global health threats into Egypt.
“Everything Is Under Full Control”
The minister concluded the press conference with a strong message of reassurance: “There is absolutely no need for fear or panic. Egypt has one of the strongest epidemiological surveillance systems in the region, and everything is under complete control.”
World Health Organization Confirms Egypt’s Safety
In a supporting statement, Dr. Ne’ma Abid, the World Health Organization’s representative in Egypt, confirmed the minister’s statements. He emphasized that the current epidemiological situation in Egypt is “completely safe and fully normal” compared to global trends.
He added that there is no evidence of any hidden or unfamiliar viruses circulating in the country, offering an additional layer of reassurance to Egyptian citizens.
Conclusion: A Seasonal Wave, Not a New Threat
The recent increase in respiratory infections in Egypt is a result of seasonal influenza activity, particularly the heightened presence of H1N1—not the arrival of a new or dangerous virus. With strong surveillance systems, widespread availability of effective vaccines, and continuous public health monitoring, Egypt remains well-prepared to face winter illnesses safely.
Officials encourage citizens to stay informed through official sources, maintain healthy preventive habits, and receive the flu vaccine to ensure their protection during the peak flu season.