RVF is a mosquito-borne disease of domestic animals that can infect humans and that flares up in parts of the country from time to time. Preventive measures include avoiding freshly slaughtered meat and known areas of infestation. Properly prepared, thoroughly cooked meat in tourist hotels, Nile cruise boats, and tourist restaurants is considered safe. Eating uncooked green, leafy vegetables should be avoided, because consumption of such vegetables can cause diarrhea. While incidents of violence are rare, purse snatching, pickpocketing and petty theft are not uncommon.
Unescorted women are vulnerable to sexual harassment and verbal abuse.
Travelers and foreign residents are subject to Egyptian laws. The loss or theft of a U.S. passport abroad should be reported immediately to local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. They are available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402. Drug enforcement policies in Egypt are very strict. The death penalty may be imposed on anyone convicted of smuggling or selling marijuana, hashish, opium, LSD, or other narcotics.