What vaccines do I need for Egypt?

Required: Yellow Fever (required if arriving from a yellow fever endemic country). Recommended by the CDC: Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid, Rabies (for extended stays or work involving animals).

Is tap water safe to drink in Egypt?

Tap water is not safe to drink in Egypt. Drink bottled or treated water throughout your trip, including in resort areas.

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North Africa

Egypt Travel Health

Reviewed by Alexander Webber, Chief Epidemiologist · Updated 2026-08

Egypt is generally lower risk for serious infectious disease compared to sub-Saharan Africa, but travelers frequently encounter traveler's diarrhea from contaminated food and water. Malaria risk is minimal and limited to a very small area of El Faiyum governorate from June through October. The primary health concern for most visitors is gastrointestinal illness. Sun exposure, heat, and dehydration are significant risks for desert travelers.

Food Safety: High Risk Tap Water: Unsafe Malaria Risk Present

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Vaccines for Egypt

Required for Entry

Yellow Fever (required if arriving from a yellow fever endemic country)

CDC Recommended

Hepatitis A
Hepatitis B
Typhoid
Rabies (for extended stays or work involving animals)

Source: CDC Travelers' Health — Egypt

Malaria Risk

Very low risk. Limited transmission of Plasmodium vivax reported in the El Faiyum governorate only, from June through October. Prophylaxis is generally not recommended for standard tourist itineraries.

Food and Water Safety

High Risk Tap water: not safe to drink

Do not drink tap water anywhere in Egypt, including in major hotels. Use bottled water for drinking and brushing teeth. Avoid raw salads, unpeeled fruit, and unpasteurized dairy. Street food carries elevated risk.

Key Health Tips for Egypt

Carry a traveler's diarrhea treatment kit including an antibiotic prescribed before departure.
Stay hydrated with bottled water; the desert heat causes rapid dehydration.
Apply high-SPF sunscreen and wear protective clothing; UV index is extreme year-round.
Avoid contact with fresh water in the Nile Delta and irrigation canals due to schistosomiasis.

Disease Risks in Egypt

Official Resources

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