The poor conditions in hospitals have been the reason for all major Ebola outbreaks. Sterilization and sanitation are luxuries. The high cost of basic sterilization equipment such as autoclaves and disposable needles as well as the lack of masks, gowns and gloves is a major cause of the spread of this disease. Also, limited staff knowledge as to the importance of basic hygiene and biohazards represents another source of the spread of Ebola.
The customs of The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) greatly influence the spread of the Ebola virus.
- The cleansing of the deceased by family members frequently transmits infected bodily fluids from the dead to the living. Burial traditions include washing the body and cleaning the gastrointestinal tract.
- The consumption or interaction and handling with diseased primates. In some areas, bushmeat is banned and controls on hunting are in place.
- Frequently, families DO NOT bring a sick relative to the hospital fearing the hospital will cause the death. This unfortunate judgement leads to an increased likihood of outbreaks and more deaths within the family and the community.
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