When trust breaks down: ebola, safe burials, and community engagement in Eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo

The Lancet Regional Health - Africa 2026 Open access

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Authors: Olivier Kabiriko Mukuku, Kaymarlin Govender, Jacques Mbaz Musung, Toni Kasole Lubala, Charles Kahindo Kangitsi
DOI: 10.1016/j.lanafr.2026.100101
Cited by: 1
References: 3

Abstract

A recent incident during the ongoing Ebola outbreak in the Mahagi Territory (Ituri) in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) illustrates persistent challenges surrounding safe burial practices, challenges that have accompanied nearly every Ebola response in the country. Following the death of a suspected Ebola patient, a burial team arrived to conduct a safe and dignified burial. The situation reportedly escalated when community members opposed the procedure and handled the deceased's body, potentially increasing the risk of exposure and onward transmission if the patient had been infected with Ebola virus disease.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Viral Infections and Outbreaks Research Disaster Response and Management Bacillus and Francisella bacterial research

Publication details

Journal / source
The Lancet Regional Health - Africa
Publisher
Elsevier BV
Volume
8
Pages
100101–100101
Publication date
1 June 2026
Language
EN