Djugu communities warn of Ebola burial delays amid rising deaths

Communities in the Djugu territory of Ituri province are sounding the alarm over a resurgence of Ebola deaths and significant delays in providing secure and dignified burials for victims. Local leaders in Lopa reported on Wednesday that a lack of logistical means is hindering the response teams responsible for handling the deceased.

Reports indicate that bodies have remained in homes for several days while awaiting the arrival of response teams. This situation is causing great concern among residents, especially as health authorities repeatedly warn of the high contamination risks associated with handling the remains of Ebola victims. Freddy Lotsima, president of Lopa's civil society, stated that over 180 people have died in the city and its surroundings in the past month, though this figure has not been officially confirmed.

Lotsima attributed the burial delays to a shortage of vehicles, fuel, and operational resources for the response teams. "The most serious issue is that, for lack of means, bodies remain locked in houses for three to four days before the response teams arrive. This is a danger to everyone," he said. "We ask the government to immediately equip the teams with vehicles and fuel so they can intervene within 24 hours of each death. Saving the living also means burying the dead with dignity."

Community stakeholders believe that improving the capacity of dignified and secure burial teams is essential for combating the epidemic. They argue that a rapid response would not only limit the virus's spread but also preserve the dignity of the deceased and support bereaved families. Health authorities are urging residents to report any suspicious deaths immediately and avoid handling bodies until specialists intervene, underscoring the persistent challenges in managing the epidemic in a region already strained by multiple crises.

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The most serious issue is that, for lack of means, bodies remain locked in houses for three to four days before the response teams arrive. This is a danger to everyone. We ask the government to immediately equip the teams with vehicles and fuel so they can intervene within 24 hours of each death. Saving the living also means burying the dead with dignity.