In spite of the dilapidated condition of the building, this was the cleanest hospital seen. Water mains contaminate also due to age and bombing. Grades 3 to 5 are admitted and given special milk. Hospital lacks central supply. Pipes in place.
Cylinders have to be trundled around wards.
Three preemies needed 8 cylinders. There have been deaths due to lack of oxygen. Each cylinder costs 2500D, or one third of a doctor's monthly salary. An oxygen factory is badly needed. Seventy-four children who died in the Governate of Basrah in August 1998 have their photos on the hospital walls.