The World Health Organization (WHO) on Friday unveiled a new WHO protocol for safe and dignified burials of people who die from the Ebola virus, emphasizing the inclusion of family members and encouraging religious rites as an essential part of the burial process.
Ebola infections have occurred during burial preparation when family and community members perform religious rites that require directly touching or washing the body, which still contains high levels of the Ebola virus. Personal property of the person who has died may also transmit the virus.
"At least 20 percent of new Ebola infections occur during burials. By building trust and respect between burial teams, bereaved families, and religious groups, we are building trust and safety in the response itself." Pierre Formenty, one of the WHO's top Ebola medical experts said.
The updated protocol outlined step-by-step processes for safe and dignified burials, encouraging family and local clergy to take part in the planning and preparation of the burial, as well as at the burial event itself, according to Muslim and Christian funeral traditions.
The protocol also recommended ways for Ebola burial teams to carry out their work safely while respecting family sensitivities, which included wear personal protective equipment when first meeting with the family, and asking the family about any specific requests for managing the burial and personal effects of the deceased.
As the protocol is applied in affected countries, ongoing feedback from religious leaders, communities and people managing burials will be used to update and improve the protocol.