The state of health in Iraq has fluctuated during its turbulent recent history. During its last decade, the regime of Saddam Hussein cut public health funding by 90 percent, contributing to a substantial deterioration in health care. During that period, maternal mortality increased nearly threefold, and the salaries of medical personnel decreased drastically.
Iraqi Dinar (IQD; symbol ID) = 20 dirhams = 1,000 fils. Notes are in denominations of ID25,000, 10,000, 5,000, 1,000, 500, 250 and 50. Coins are in denominations of ID100 and 25.
In the Christian homes an unusual ceremony is held in the courtyard of the home on Christmas Eve.