‘No cases’: Erbil health officials deny reports of hospitalizations from dust storm

ERBIL — The Erbil Health Directorate on Thursday denied reports that residents were hospitalized due to an ongoing dust storm, saying no cases of respiratory distress had been reported.

Saman Salman, head of media at the directorate, told 964media that the situation remains normal. “No cases of respiratory distress have been reported due to the dust storm, and no one has been admitted to hospitals as a result,” he said.

Salman credited public adherence to previously issued health guidelines for helping prevent serious health incidents. The recommendations included staying indoors, sealing homes against dust, and using face masks when going outside.

A dust storm swept through parts of the Kurdistan Region overnight, leaving cars, homes, and streets coated in dust. Some media outlets reported hospitalizations in Erbil, which the health directorate refuted.

Officials acknowledged that airborne dust can cause allergic reactions, eye irritation, and respiratory issues. The directorate urged residents to take preventive measures and avoid going outdoors unless necessary.