The men range in age from 12 to 60, though the average is near 30. To qualify for a bed, they had to have been refused admission to all city hospitals. Sisters and Brothers also bring in those they find lying in the streets. Rarely, people get themselves to the front door, hoping for a spare bed and that the Sister in charge considers them sick enough for admission. Malnutrition is the root of every disease at Kalighat.
Tuberculosis is endemic, and complications from it are common causes of admission.
Dysentery in all its forms is another leading contender. The women's ward is exactly like the men's, except there are 57 beds with occupants appearing a bit more robust. Still, several are just skin and bone, obviously not long for this world. The middle section of Kalighat includes water-storage tanks, a wash area, and the morgue. She's the type who, if you poke your head up, might just shoot it off.