Safe and Dignified Burials

The bodies of people who die from BVD remain highly infectious. Anyone who touches a body without protection is at serious risk of infection.

What to do when someone dies with BVD-like symptoms:

Call or visit nearest health facility BEFORE anyone touches or prepares the body.
🙅🏽‍♀️Keep others away from the body until the burial team arrives.
🚫Do NOT wash, kiss, or touch the body.
DO speak to the burial team about your cultural and religious needs BEFORE they begin — many elements of a dignified burial can still be respected.

At mourning gatherings:
• Avoid embracing or close physical contact between mourners.
• Do not share food, drinks, or dishes.
• Do not touch or open the body bag.
• Wash hands frequently with soap and water.

Safe burial is not abandonment. It is protection for the entire family and community.

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