How bushmeat, burial rites and disinformation make the DRC an Ebola hotspot
The ongoing crisis in the Democratic Republic of Congo
How bushmeat burial rites and disinformation – A deadly strain of Ebola has been spreading rapidly in the remote regions of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), resulting in over 100 fatalities and prompting a global health alert. The virus, which has claimed more than 2,299 lives in a single outbreak between 2018 and 2020, continues to pose a persistent threat. With 17 documented outbreaks—more than any other nation—Ebola remains deeply embedded in the country’s public health landscape. The current epidemic, driven by the Bundibugyo strain, has intensified fears due to the lack of available vaccines or treatments for this particular variant.
Origins and transmission of the virus
Ebola’s origins trace back to 1976 when it was first identified in the DRC. The virus, which causes severe symptoms such as high fever and both internal and external bleeding, is believed to originate in wildlife. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), transmission to humans occurs through direct contact with the blood or bodily fluids of infected forest animals. These include fruit bats, porcupines, and non-human primates like monkeys. Once the virus enters a human population, it spreads swiftly through bodily fluids or contaminated surfaces, making containment a complex challenge.
Geography as a breeding ground for outbreaks
The DRC’s vast, dense forests—covering over 60% of its landmass (150 million hectares)—serve as a natural reservoir for the virus. In the Congo Basin, which spans the country’s northeastern region, bushmeat is not just a delicacy but a crucial dietary staple. For many rural communities, hunting wild animals provides up to 80% of their protein intake, making it a matter of survival rather than choice. This reliance on bushmeat creates a constant risk of virus spillover, as contact with infected animals is inevitable in daily life.
The role of cultural practices in virus spread
Tradition plays a significant role in the persistence of outbreaks. Eteni Longondo, a former DRC health minister, emphasized that local customs, particularly burial rites, remain a critical factor in the virus’s transmission. “It starts from the forest, and we don’t have any control there,” he said, noting that traditional hunting habits cannot be altered overnight. “You cannot tell people to stop with their culture, and then they just stop right away. They are still eating them (wild meat) because they don’t have another alternative.” The practice of handling and consuming infected carcasses during funerals further exacerbates the spread, as these rituals often involve close contact with the deceased.
Rebel groups and the humanitarian impact
The DRC’s mineral wealth contrasts sharply with the extreme poverty affecting over 80% of its 100 million citizens. In the east, where armed conflicts have ravaged communities, the situation is particularly dire. A powerful rebel coalition has seized large swaths of territory, displacing millions and plunging the region into a severe food crisis. The rebels recently confirmed an Ebola case in Bukavu, a city they control in South Kivu province. The patient, a 28-year-old, had died and was buried safely, according to their report. Separately, a second case was identified in Goma, the largest city in eastern DRC, which is also under rebel occupation.
Tracking the outbreak’s progression
The current outbreak is concentrated in the Ituri Province, located on the northeastern edge of the Congo Basin. Provincial capital Bunia and mining towns like Mongwalu and Rwampara have become epicenters of the crisis. The first suspected case involved a healthcare worker whose symptoms began on April 24. The individual later died at a medical facility in Bunia. By May 5, officials flagged an “unidentified illness” linked to high mortality rates in the region. A rapid response team’s investigation on May 13 confirmed the outbreak’s origin as the Bundibugyo strain on May 15. This rare form of Ebola has now reached neighboring Uganda, where two confirmed cases were identified in Kampala. Both patients had traveled independently from the DRC, with no connection between their infections.
Disinformation and fear fueling the epidemic
Community mobilizer Valet Chebujongo noted that while the virus itself is a cause for concern, the real threat comes from widespread misinformation and cultural beliefs. “People are panicking,” he said, highlighting the emotional toll of the outbreak. “In Mongwalu, people are claiming that a phantom coffin circulates, capable of delivering instant death upon mere sight,” he explained. Such myths contribute to the virus’s spread by discouraging preventive measures. For instance, communities may avoid reporting symptoms or refusing to quarantine, fearing supernatural consequences. This erosion of trust in health authorities complicates containment efforts, especially in regions with limited access to information.
Challenges in combating the epidemic
Health officials face a multifaceted battle against the virus. In addition to monitoring hunting activities and educating communities about safe practices, they must navigate political instability and resource shortages. The rebels’ control over key areas like Bukavu and Goma has disrupted healthcare services, making it difficult to respond effectively. Meanwhile, the ongoing reliance on bushmeat underscores the challenge of shifting dietary habits without compromising livelihoods. “This is not just a health issue,” Longondo added. “It’s a cultural and economic one too.” The combination of these factors creates a perfect storm for recurring outbreaks, even as the global health community watches closely.
As the DRC grapples with this latest crisis, the interplay between tradition, geography, and modern health systems remains a focal point. The Bundibugyo strain’s persistence highlights the need for sustained efforts to address both the biological and social dimensions of the epidemic. With over 100 lives already lost and the virus spreading beyond the borders of the DRC, the situation demands a coordinated, culturally sensitive approach to mitigate its impact and protect vulnerable populations.
