In May an outbreak of the deadly Ebola virus is occurring in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda. The Bundibugyo species of Ebola involved is one for which there is no vaccine or specific treatment.

Ebola only spreads through close contact with the body fluids of an infected, sick or dead person. The body of a dead Ebola victim is highly infectious. The authorities need to ensure safe burial to stop the spread of the virus.

Traditionally, relatives of someone who dies will wash, touch and even kiss the deceased. It has long been known that traditional and religious practices in several African countries have had the effect of spreading diseases such as Ebola.

For example, in 2015 the World Health Organization (WHO) claimed that nearly 60% of all Ebola cases reported in Guinea could be linked to traditional burial practices.

In some communities Ebola is linked to the metaphysical realm so diviners and spiritual healers are often consulted for treatment, and the actions they prescribe are totally counter to what should be done. Burial practices also help to spread the disease.

When friends and relatives are prevented from collecting and burying the bodies of people who have died in Ebola hospital tents that were being used as isolation wards, they may become angry and even set fire to the tents.

Western medicine itself is often resisted by these cultures, perhaps because it tries to prevent people from practicing these traditional burial rituals.

The appearance of the hazmat suits which are worn by healthcare workers to protect themselves from becoming infected also seems to frighten some Africans.