Cairo Health

Are there any vaccinations I should get or other health precautions to take as I prepare for my move to your city?
No vaccinations are required, but all travelers coming into Egypt should be up-to-date on tetanus-diphtheria, measles-mumps-rubella, polio and varicella immunizations. It is important to bring any medical certificates/records from your home country.

Check any other specific vaccination requirements carefully with your local Egypt consulate or embassy to confirm medical requirements.
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Before I get sick, what should I know about seeking medical care in your city as an expat?
Medical facilities in Cairo are adequate for non-emergency matters, but emergency and intensive care facilities are limited. Typically, most expatriates choose to leave the country if they incur any serious medical problems. For regular check ups, some wait until they go back to their home country and see their regular doctor. 

However, there are many Western-trained medical professionals throughout Egypt; the U.S. Embassy in Cairo can provide a list of local hospitals and English-speaking physicians.

Please note: medical facilities outside Cairo, Alexandria, and Sharm El Sheikh fall short of U.S. standards.
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What is the word for "doctor" in the local language?
Doctor, physician and/or MD - medical doctor
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What is the best way to locate a suitable health care provider?
Most insurance companies can provide a list of doctors and specialists in each area. Another alternative that is often helpful is asking a friend, co-worker or neighbor for their recommendations. Also, a list of doctors and their specialties should be listed in the local telephone book. If you need further assistance, please contact Crown Cairo.
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Do expats in the area tend to leave the city/area/country to seek medical care? If so, why and where do they go?
Yes, some expats wait for a trip back to their home country to visit their regular doctor.
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What is the number to call to summon help in an emergency? List medical/fire/police.
The common phone numbers used for emergencies are listed below:

  • Police - 122
  • Ambulance - 123
  • Fire Department - 125

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What do I do if there's an emergency in the middle of the night—or at another time when my normal doctor/clinic is unavailable?
If an emergency occurs in the middle of the night either call one of the numbers referenced above and wait for an ambulance, or have a family member or friend drive you to the nearest major hospital in your area. Major hospitals have 24-hour emergency clinics, so identifying the nearest 24-hour emergency clinic from where you live is an important first task once you have had a chance to settle in. Also, some doctors are available for home visits 24 hours a day.
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How will I recognize a pharmacy? What is it called in the local language?
In Arabic, the word for pharmacy is saydaliyya. Pharmacies are located throughout the city and many are open 24 hours a day. In addition to selling medications, pharmacies also sell perfume and cosmetics during regular working hours.
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Is the water safe to drink?
It is recommended that you do not drink the tap water. It is best to drink bottled water or water that has been boiled. You should also avoid eating any uncooked vegetables.
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IMPORTANT NOTE:
Crown Relocations has made every effort to present accurate information. However, regulations, rates and other variables are subject to change and Crown Relocations cannot accept responsibility for the errors that might result. Should you have any questions or need additional information, please contact your local Crown representative.