Egypt’s vaccination requirements: Do I need a vaccine to travel to Egypt?

Egypt beckons travelers with its mesmerizing history, from the majestic pyramids to the winding Nile. However, a crucial aspect of planning your Egyptian trip involves understanding vaccination requirements.

This guide provides detailed insights into Egypt's vaccination requirements, ensuring you are well-prepared for your journey. Stay informed about necessary vaccines and health tips for a memorable and safe experience in the land of pharaohs.

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Vaccine requirements for Egypt

Visiting Egypt requires careful health preparation. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend that travelers consult their healthcare provider at least a month before departure to discuss necessary vaccines and medicines. Check out the recommended vaccines below.

Routine Vaccines: They aren’t mandatory, but the CDC recommends being up to date on routine vaccines before traveling. These may include:

Chickenpox (Varicella)
Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
Flu (Influenza)
Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)
Shingles

COVID-19: COVID-19 vaccination isn’t mandatory; you don’t need to present a vaccination certificate. However, all eligible travelers should be current with their COVID-19 vaccines.

Hepatitis A: Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year or older.

Hepatitis B: Advised for unvaccinated travelers under 60 years old.

Measles: Infants 6 to 11 months old should receive an MMR vaccine dose before international travel.

Polio: Due to recent poliovirus identification in Egypt, travelers at increased risk should consider vaccination.

You’re in the risky group if: 1) You work in health care settings involving direct patient contact, 2) You assist in refugee camps or other humanitarian aid services, or 3) You have limited access to clean drinking water and sanitation.
Polio vaccination for at-risk adults: If you’re fully vaccinated against polio in childhood and plan a trip to Egypt, get a one-time booster dose of the inactivated polio vaccine.
Polio vaccination for unvaccinated or partially vaccinated travelers: Those who still need to complete their polio vaccination or are unvaccinated must undergo full polio vaccinations before traveling to Egypt. This also applies to children who still need to complete their vaccination schedule; they might need an expedited vaccination schedule to ensure full protection before the trip.

Rabies: Consider rabies vaccination if you will be around dogs or wildlife.

Typhoid: Recommended for most travelers, especially if visiting smaller cities or rural areas.

Yellow Fever: It’s mandatory for travelers arriving from countries with risk for yellow fever. The requirement includes transiting or layovers in these territories for more than 12 hours.

Other health tips for traveling in Egypt

When traveling to Egypt, it's not just vaccinations that matter. Your overall health and safety are paramount. Here are some practical tips to ensure a healthier and more enjoyable trip:

Mindful eating and drinking: Be cautious with food and water consumption. Stick to bottled or treated water and avoid ice in drinks. Choose well-cooked meals and fruits to peel yourself to reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses.
Preventing bug bites: Egypt's climate can attract mosquitoes and other insects. Protect yourself by using insect repellents, wearing light-colored long-sleeved shirts and pants, and sleeping under mosquito nets if necessary.
Stay hydrated: The Egyptian climate can be arid and hot, particularly in desert areas. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, but ensure it's from a safe source.
Sun protection: The sun can be intense, so apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30, wear hats and sunglasses, and seek shade during peak sun hours (10 AM to 4 PM).
Travel Insurance: Consider purchasing travel health insurance that covers medical evacuation, as healthcare facilities may vary in quality across different regions in Egypt.

Egypt visa requirement

Besides health preparations, getting a visa is essential for traveling to Egypt. The Egypt eVisa has a convenient online process that streamlines your entry into the country.

This electronic visa allows you to travel for tourism, business, or medical purposes and is an alternative to traditional visas requiring embassy visits. Click here for more details and to apply for your Egypt eVisa.

Contact us for more information

For inquiries or assistance with your Egypt eVisa application or other travel documents, our customer support team is ready to help. Reach out to us via online chat or at [email protected].