'Pathogens, insects, lice eggs'
Contagious diseases detected in Baghdad sewage with ministry distributing purification tablets
BAGHDAD — Iraq’s Ministry of Health has confirmed the detection of contagious diseases in sewage samples during routine inspections in parts of Baghdad, leading to the distribution of water purification tablets in affected areas.
“Inspection teams recently discovered various pathogens, insects, lice eggs and intestinal worms inside sewage pipes,” Khalida Al-Kinani, head of the ministry’s Contagious Diseases Division, said in a statement to Al-Araby Al-Jadeed. “The level of contamination varies depending on the condition of the infrastructure and the frequency of maintenance.”
To address these issues, health teams have distributed purification tablets to reduce pollution levels. In areas where a contagious disease has been identified, tablets are provided to all residents. “The extent of these findings depends on the maintenance and replacement of sewage networks and the strength of the infrastructure,” Al-Kinani explained.
Al-Kinani also noted that samples and official reports are sent to the Baghdad municipality to initiate action. “Contagious diseases are prevalent in Baghdad’s informal settlements due to unauthorized sewage connections, which increase the risk of drinking water mixing with sewage,” she added.