Egypt Health Ministry Denies Unusual Croup Outbreak in Schools

Egypt’s Ministry of Health and Population has stated that no unusual outbreak of croup has been detected in schools or nurseries, following reports about the respiratory illness spreading among students.

Hossam Abdel Ghaffar, the ministry’s spokesperson, explained that croup is a well-known respiratory condition rather than a new virus. It involves inflammation of the larynx and windpipe and is commonly caused by respiratory viruses, including parainfluenza viruses.

Croup is different from diphtheria

The ministry emphasized that croup and diphtheria are different diseases. Croup is usually viral, while diphtheria is a bacterial infection that can be prevented through recommended vaccinations.

Young children are most at risk

Croup mainly affects children between six months and three years of age. It becomes less common after the age of five as the airway grows. Symptoms may include a barking cough, hoarseness, and noisy breathing.

No unusual outbreak reported in schools

The ministry said its epidemiological surveillance system monitors respiratory illnesses across Egyptian governorates. Current infection levels among children remain within expected seasonal ranges, and no unusual pattern has been identified in schools or nurseries.

Six tips to protect children

Health guidance includes frequent handwashing, keeping sick children at home while they recover, improving indoor ventilation, following recommended vaccinations, keeping affected children calm and hydrated, and avoiding antibiotics unless prescribed by a healthcare professional.

Parents should seek urgent medical care if a child experiences severe breathing difficulties, bluish lips, marked drowsiness, or persistent noisy breathing at rest.

The ministry encouraged the public to obtain health information from official sources and contact its hotline at 105 for inquiries about respiratory illnesses and children's health.