Transport of Ebola Victims' Bodies Fuels Virus's Spread in Congo

The transport of Ebola victims' bodies between regions of the Democratic Republic of the Congo is increasing the risk of further spread of the virus, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) has warned. Families often wish to bury their relatives in their home communities, but the virus remains highly infectious even after death.

Since the start of the epidemic, more than 2,000 infections and approximately 700 deaths have been recorded in the Congo and neighboring Uganda, with most victims dying outside healthcare facilities.

During inspections at domestic border crossings, the IOM intercepted 105 bodies being transported, examined them and ensured they were safely buried. The organization said the transport of a single body likely contributed to the spread of the disease to Tshopo Province.

The situation is complicated by resistance from some residents to safety measures at funerals, as well as mistrust of healthcare workers. The World Health Organization also notes that approximately one-fifth of the contacts of infected individuals still cannot be traced.

(Reuters, mja)