Egypt’s vaccine rollout began with healthcare workers in January, but the country of 100 million people has only inoculated about 1 per cent of its population. Meanwhile, cases have steadily climbed as a third wave of the pandemic grips the nation.
The latest health ministry figures, released on Monday night, show 1,150 new cases and 68 deaths over the previous 24 hours. The daily count is approaching the previous peaks in December and June.
Last week Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly announced new measures until May 21 to curb the spread of the virus, including a ban on mass celebrations and the closure of public beaches and parks, as the country prepares to celebrate Eid Al Fitr.