Dust storm sends over 1,100 Iraqis to hospital with breathing difficulties

BAGHDAD — Iraq’s Health Ministry recorded 1,133 cases of respiratory distress during the recent dust storm, with Muthanna governorate accounting for more than half of all cases, the ministry said Monday.

Health Ministry spokesperson Saif al-Badr said cases ranged from mild to moderate and that most patients had been discharged after receiving treatment at hospitals and health centers. Muthanna recorded 576 cases, followed by Najaf with 300 and Baghdad with 200. No deaths were reported.

“All cases received full medical services, including emergency care, treatment and follow-up,” Badr said.

Iraq’s Civil Defense Directorate had issued a warning ahead of the storm on Sunday, advising residents to seal doors and windows, use wet cloth barriers to block dust and keep children, the elderly and people with respiratory conditions indoors.