The Democratic Republic of Congo is facing an unprecedented problem in its fight against Ebola, one that is dramatically increasing the risk of transmission. Health facilities across the country are facing attacks where locals storm medical centers and set fire to isolation tents. It is complicating an already difficult public health response.
The situation has become increasingly volatile as local communities clash with health workers over strict burial protocols. The rules followed by centers are designed to prevent the virus from spreading. Still, they often directly conflict with long-standing cultural traditions where families say goodbye to their loved ones by touching the body.
