Bilharzia ranks second to malaria. It is transmitted by contaminated water. Transmission of pneumonia, usually by contact, is also a serious health problem, especially in areas of high population density. Nutritional disorders are also a common cause of death, especially in children. Unsanitary conditions and crowded, unventilated houses aggravate these problems.
Food stored in the open air is exposed to contamination by dust and flies.
Few towns have adequate sewage systems. Water, especially in rural areas, is subject to contamination. Water polluted with human and animal waste is frequently found being used for laundering, bathing, and even drinking. In 1975 the government nationalized almost all the nation's medical health institutions and adopted a plan to provide basic health care to the greatest number of people possible. The simplest medical facilities are the dispensaries, which provide basic care and dispense medication.