During the 44th annual health conference on Monday, Health Minister Hatem el-Gabali warned of a more severe wave of the H1N1 virus, also known as swine flu, in the coming weeks as winter progresses. Winter is traditionally flu season.
The minister called on the media to educate the people about the virus and means of preventing its spread. He emphasized that the ministry treats patients and gives out vaccines for free, despite a scarcity of vaccines. The death toll from the virus currently stands at almost 60.
El-Gabali also discussed the new health insurance bill, which he said will cover all citizens and take their differing financial capabilities into consideration. "The government will cover those who cannot afford subscription in the new system," el-Gabali said.
"We are continuously working on improving the medical sector in terms of infrastructure, administration and human resources," he concluded his address to the conference, specifically citing the human organ transplant bill as an unprecedented move in Egyptian health legislation.
Translated from the Arabic Edition.
