Most visitors enjoy Egypt without serious health problems. The most common issues are stomach upsets, sunburn and heat, and a few simple habits prevent most of them. This guide covers health and safety in Egypt: water and food, heat, vaccinations, wildlife and rivers, insurance and emergencies. It is general advice, not medical advice, so speak to a doctor or travel clinic before you go. For crime and street safety, read our guide to safe travel in Egypt.
Heat exhaustion is common in summer and in the south. Drink water, wear a hat, use sun cream and rest at midday. Read our guide to the best time to visit Egypt.
Large cities and resorts have private clinics and hospitals, and pharmacies are common. Save your insurer’s emergency number, and check the local emergency numbers (including the tourist police) with your hotel before you travel.
| Problem | Common cause | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Stomach upset | New food, ice, salads, unwashed fruit | Rest, drink fluids with rehydration salts; see a doctor if you have a fever or it lasts more than two days |
| Heat exhaustion | Midday sightseeing in summer or in the south | Get into shade, drink water, cool down; get help if you feel confused or stop sweating |
| Sunburn | Strong sun all year, reflection from water and sand | Sun cream, a hat and long sleeves; aloe or after-sun |
| Dehydration | Heat, long days, too little water | Drink often, even before you feel thirsty; carry a bottle |
| Cuts on coral | Snorkelling and walking on reefs | Clean well with fresh water and antiseptic; coral cuts get infected easily |
Pharmacies are everywhere in Cairo, Luxor, Aswan and the Red Sea resorts, and many stay open late or around the clock. Pharmacists often speak English and can help with common problems. Bring enough of any prescription medicine for the whole trip in its original packaging, with a copy of the prescription, because brands and names differ in Egypt.
| Service | Number |
|---|---|
| Ambulance | 123 |
| Police | 122 |
| Tourist police | 126 |
| Fire | 180 |
Save these numbers and your insurer’s 24-hour line in your phone. Your hotel reception can also call a doctor or an ambulance for you.
Be careful with water, food and sun, keep insurance details handy and speak to a doctor before you go. These steps prevent most problems.
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Bottled or filtered water is the safe choice for most visitors.
Ask your doctor. Recommendations depend on your health and your plans.
No. Avoid freshwater swimming because of bilharzia. Use hotel pools and the sea instead.
Rest, drink fluids and use rehydration salts. See a doctor if symptoms are serious, and call your insurer.
Yes in cities and resorts.
Go early, rest at midday and drink often.
Yes at busy, clean places. Take simple precautions.
Ambulance 123, police 122, tourist police 126 and fire 180.
Yes. Pharmacies are common and many medicines are sold over the counter, but bring your own prescription medicines with you.
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