Hospitals and pharmacies are available to visitors especially in the big cities and resort areas. Although medical care outside of Cairo has improved significantly in recent years, it does not always correspond to western European standards, even in the tourist centers. It is therefore strongly recommended that you take out international travel health insurance, which should also cover medically necessary (flight) return transport in an emergency. Check directoryaah for more information.
Notes vaccinations
[1] A vaccination certificate against yellow fever is required for all travelers who are 9 months and older and travel from one of the WHO-designated infection areas (as well as Eritrea, Rwanda, Somalia, Tanzania or Zambia) or are there for more than 12 hours in transit have stopped. [2] The malaria species Plasmodium vivax and the more dangerous form Plasmodium falciparum can occur in the region around Al Faiyoum (Nile Oasis) from June to October, but the risk is low (no cases since 2014). In Alexandria and Cairo there is no risk of malaria. Malaria prophylaxis is currently not recommended for Egypt. [3] Vaccination against thypus is recommended for all travelers. Proof of vaccination against polio within 12 months to 4 weeks prior to entry is required for all travelers entering from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Kenya, Niger or Syria. The vaccination must be documented in the international vaccination certificate.
Food and drink
Stomach and intestinal problems are common, so you should take a supply of appropriate medication with you. Only mineral water should be used as drinking water and for brushing teeth. For the first few weeks of your stay, it is advisable to drink bottled water, which is available everywhere. When buying packaged water, you should make sure that the original packaging has not been opened. Milk is usually not pasteurized and should be boiled. Only mix canned milk or milk powder with sterile water. It is best to avoid dairy products made from unboiled milk. Fish and meat dishes should only be well cooked and served hot. Fruit should be peeled and vegetables should be boiled.
Other risks
The standard vaccinations for children and adults recommended by the Robert Koch Institute (including against tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis (whooping cough), mumps, measles, rubella, pneumococci, poliomyelitis and influenza) should be refreshed before the trip if necessary. Vaccinations against hepatitis A are also recommended as travel vaccinations, and vaccinations against hepatitis B, typhoid, rabies and meningococcal disease (ACWY) for long-term stays or special exposure. Schistosomiasis pathogens occur in fresh water (especially in the Nile delta, Nile valley and in the Suez Canal area). Swimming and wading in inland waters should therefore be avoided. Well maintained swimming pools with chlorinated water are safe. Dengue fever, transmitted by mosquitoes, occurs along the Red Sea coast. An effective insect repellent is recommended. Nationwide there is an increased risk of infection with hepatitis A and hepatitis B. A hepatitis A vaccination is generally recommended. Vaccination against hepatitis B should be given during longer stays and close contact with the local population, as well as for children and young people in general. Bloodborne hepatitis C is common; Body piercing, tattoos, shaving and manicures should be avoided. Leishmaniasis and West Nile fever occur. An effective insect repellent is recommended. HIV/AIDS is a danger for everyone who takes risks of infection: unprotected sexual contacts, unclean syringes or needles and blood transfusions can pose a significant health risk. There is a risk of meningococcal meningitis especially in the Nile Valley. Every year, more meningococcal meningitis diseases are registered during the dry season from December to May. To protect yourself, you should get vaccinated. Rabies occurs nationwide. Carriers include stray dogs, cats, forest animals and bats. Vaccination is recommended for backpackers, adventure travelers and children. In the event of a bite, seek medical attention as soon as possible. One should ensure sufficient sun protection and always carry a sufficient quantity of drinking water with oneself.
Health certificate
A negative HIV test in English is required for a work permit.
Money
Currency
1 Egyptian pound = 100 piasters. Currency code: LE (£E), EGP (ISO code). Notes come in denominations of E£200, 100, 50, 20, 10, 5 and 1 and 50, 25, 10 and 5 piasters; Coins come in denominations of 50, 25, 20, 10, 5 piasters and £1, but are almost non-circulating.
Credit cards
Note: Travelers who want to pay with their bank customer card abroad and withdraw money should find out from their bank about the possibility of using their card before starting their journey. Credit cards (Mastercard, American Express, Diners Club and Visa) are not accepted everywhere. Details from the issuer of the relevant credit card. Only major hotels or restaurants in Cairo and tourist areas accept credit cards as direct payment. With some credit cards (Visa/Mastercard) you can withdraw cash in the local currency from ATMs of larger banks.
ATMs
Bank cards The Girocard (formerly EC card) with the Cirrus, Plus or Maestro symbol is accepted worldwide. Cards with the Cirrus or Maestro symbol are accepted at many ATMs in Egypt, but less often in shops. Further information from banks and credit institutes. Attention: Travelers who want to pay with their bank customer card abroad and withdraw money should find out from their bank about the possibility of using their card before starting their journey.
Travelers cheques
Traveller’s checks are not accepted in Egypt.
Bank opening hours
Sun-Thu 08.30-14.00. Branches in hotels and at the airport have longer or continuous opening hours.
Foreign exchange regulations
Import and export of local currency limited to E£5,000. Unlimited import of foreign currencies, obligation to declare from an equivalent value of US$ 10,000. The export of foreign currency is limited to the amount imported. Receipts and proof of exchange must be presented.
Currency Exchange
Foreign currencies can be exchanged in banks, official exchange offices and in most hotels. At banks there is usually a better rate than at exchange offices or at the hotel reception. All major international currencies are accepted.
