An Internet search for “cremation” and “cremation headlines” now finds links to stories concerning the latest Ebola outbreak. Liberian government officials have ordered the bodies of Ebola victims should be cremated to help stop the spread of the disease. Likewise, the body of Thomas Duncan, the man who recently suffered and died from Ebola in a Dallas, Texas hospital, is set for cremation at the Centers for Disease Control’s (CDC) recommendation. The CDC does, in fact, recommend cremation as one way to handle the body of an Ebola victim, but it is not listed as the only way. This kind of news event can cast an unfair and negative light on cremation, a process which has been steadily growing in favor as a means of final disposition over the past several decades.

Separation is Critical

Ebola is a deadly disease which exhibits itself as flu-like symptoms in its victims. The disease itself can be passed when someone comes in contact with bodily fluids — sweat, saliva, vomit or feces — of an infected person. As such, the CDC suggest restricting contact with these individuals and quarantining any person who is suspected to have the disease. As the population grows ever more frightened by this disease, disturbing stories and images are popping up about how to handle this outbreak.

For instance, a story posted in August by the Associated Press explains how Liberian health authorities ordered the bodies of all Ebola victims to be cremated as a way to stop the spread of the disease. Bodies are found abandoned on the streets as people worry that even burying the dead will make them vulnerable to this disease.

One Option, Not the Only Option

According to the CDC, Ebola can still be spread once its victim has died. Therefore, mortuary workers should take extra precautions when handling these patients, making certain not to come in contact with their bodily fluids. The CDC does recommend cremation as a way to dispose of the bodies as the high heat involved will destroy the virus. As an alternative, the CDC recommends bagging the patient in thick plastic bags and placing them in a hermetically sealed casket. No matter which method is chosen, however, the CDC recommends bagging the body in two layers of thick plastic.

There are still those out there for whom the topic of cremation is taboo, especially those whose religion prohibits it. Yet the fact remains, cremation has been a popular choice for centuries. News stories such as those we’ve seen lately may cast cremation in a negative light thanks to association, but with millions preplanning their cremation with their local mortuary or dedicated cremation provider, the process of cremation is certain to continue its steady rise in popularity over the coming years.