Dust storms send 837 Iraqis to hospital with breathing difficulties

BAGHDAD — Iraq’s Health Ministry said Tuesday that 837 people had been treated for breathing difficulties across several cities as dust storms continued for a second consecutive day, with no deaths reported.

The ministry said medical institutions remained on “full alert” and that all patients received treatment before being discharged after their conditions improved. Health departments in Baghdad and other governorates were operating under emergency measures directed by Health Minister Abdul Hussein al-Moussawi.

Iraq has experienced repeated dust waves since the beginning of May. An earlier storm on May 4 sent 1,133 people to hospital, with Muthanna recording the highest number at 576 cases, followed by Najaf with 300 and Baghdad with 200.

Monday’s storm turned skies red at the Trebil border crossing in western Anbar as it swept eastward, with authorities warning of particular risks for people with respiratory conditions such as asthma and reduced visibility for drivers.