How Ebola misinformation is fuelling violent attacks against health workers
Summary
In eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, misinformation about Ebola is causing attacks on health workers and treatment centers. False rumors claim Ebola does not exist or that health workers have harmful intentions, which makes it harder to control the outbreak. Safe burial practices, important to stop the disease spread, face resistance due to these false beliefs.Key Facts
- Over 1,700 people have been infected and 580 have died in the current Ebola outbreak in DR Congo since mid-May.
- Health workers trying to conduct safe burials have been attacked, including an incident where four Red Cross volunteers were hurt.
- Misinformation includes claims that Ebola is fake, that health workers infect people on purpose, or that the Ebola response is a money scam.
- At least 12 violent incidents linked to resistance against Ebola control have been documented, including attacks on treatment centers.
- A treatment center was set on fire on 1 July in Bafwabango, with clashes resulting in a police officer's death.
- Ebola spreads through direct contact with bodily fluids, and bodies remain infectious after death, making safe burials critical.
- No approved vaccine or treatment exists yet for the Bundibugyo species causing this outbreak, but trials for treatments have begun.
- Funeral practices involving touching the deceased can spread Ebola, so alternatives have been promoted, but cultural traditions and mistrust complicate acceptance.
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