Abdel-Ghaffar explained that respiratory illnesses typically increase during this season, particularly affecting individuals with pre-existing conditions.

"The period from November to March usually sees heightened activity of respiratory viruses," he told Sada El-Balad TV channel on Tuesday.

His remarks come amid reports of rising flu cases with stronger-than-average symptoms, leading some doctors and citizens to warn of a new COVID-19 variant on social media.

While not denying the possibility of new coronavirus mutations emerging globally – akin to other respiratory infections, such as influenza, parainfluenza, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) – Abdel-Ghaffar confirmed that influenza is currently the most widespread in Egypt.

Abdel-Ghaffar said the World Health Organization (WHO)’s declaration in May 2023 that the COVID-19 global health emergency has ended does not indicate the virus's disappearance.

He noted that COVID-19 will continue to mutate, much like other common respiratory viruses.

However, he clarified that the WHO’s announcement shifts the focus from a pandemic-level response to treating COVID-19 as another respiratory virus, similar to influenza, parainfluenza, and RSV.

He recommended that citizens receive the influenza vaccine as a crucial step in combating cold-related illnesses. He urged continued vigilance and preventative measures.

Abdel-Ghaffar reassured the public that the Egyptian health ministry has a robust monitoring system to track all respiratory diseases.

The pandemic took a heavy toll on Egyptians in 2020-2021 before it subsided in 2022.

In August 2023, Abdel-Ghaffar announced that COVID-19 infection rates in Egypt reached their lowest point since the pandemic began, with no reported deaths since 16 March.