Hosni said cases of upper respiratory tract infection have been observed recently. However, none have developed severe symptoms requiring hospitalisation, intensive care, or ventilator usage.

On Tuesday evening, he told the media that the ministry handles viruses transparently.

Recently, some doctors and citizens have warned on social media about a new COVID-19 variant, reporting a rise in flu cases with more severe-than-usual symptoms.

Over the past weeks, a new coronavirus variant, known as XEC, has been reported globally, especially in Europe.  

However, its potential impact on public health is currently assessed as low due to “the continued effectiveness of available vaccines,” according to a World Health Organization (WHO) report published earlier in December.

Hosni emphasized the importance of the individual's role in controlling the spread of viruses, advising those with any respiratory infection to isolate themselves at home and wear masks in public places to protect themselves and others.

He advised that preventive measures should focus on adhering to public health guidelines and avoiding sudden weather changes and crowded places rather than relying on vitamins or medications.

Last week, Ministry of Health Spokesman Hossam Abdel-Ghaffar said seasonal influenza is currently Egypt's most widespread respiratory virus.

He affirmed that respiratory diseases typically increase during this season, particularly affecting individuals with pre-existing conditions.

Abdel-Ghaffar also noted that COVID-19 will continue to mutate like other common respiratory viruses.

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

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