Health in Egypt: vaccines, water, medical care and insurance

Check that your standard childhood immunisations (MMR, DTP, polio, varicella, seasonal flu) are up‑to‑date before you travel.

Hepatitis A is advised for all travellers; check the exact dose timing with official vaccine guidance.

Typhoid vaccine, either oral capsules or a single injectable dose, is recommended for most travellers.

Hepatitis B may be useful for longer trips, especially if you anticipate medical procedures, tattoos or sexual contact.

Rabies vaccination is optional but worth considering if you will be in remote regions, work with animals, or hike in the desert.

Tap water in Egypt is not reliably safe to drink; it may contain contaminants.

Use sealed bottled water for drinking, or boil tap water for at least one minute.

Avoid ice cubes unless you are sure they are made from bottled water.

Eat cooked foods served hot and peel fruit yourself; be cautious with salads and raw vegetables from street stalls.

Public hospitals provide basic care but English‑speaking staff are limited; private clinics in major cities (Cairo, Alexandria, Luxor) have higher standards and many accept international cards.

Emergency services can be reached at 123 (ambulance) in Egypt. For serious illness or injury, evacuation to a European or US hospital may be required.

Travel insurance that covers medical treatment, hospitalisation and evacuation is strongly recommended. Verify that the policy includes COVID‑19 coverage if relevant.