In eastern China, a 60-year-old man surnamed Chen fell ill with a dangerous viral infection after a peculiar funeral ritual. Doctors believe the cause of infection was that the man slept on his deceased mother's bed for 35 days.
Chen's mother, who was 86 years old, died suddenly after gastrointestinal issues. She worked daily in the fields, so, according to medical professionals, she may have contracted the virus after a tick bite.
According to local traditions, a son must sleep on the bed of a deceased relative for 35 days. This custom is intended to help the spirit complete its journey to the afterlife. On the tenth day of the ritual, Chen experienced a deterioration in his health and was hospitalized with a range of symptoms.
Doctors diagnosed Chen with a tick-borne virus. This infection can cause high fever, gastrointestinal disturbances, and in the worst cases, lead to serious complications. Specialists emphasize that the man may have been infected through contact with biological remains left on his deceased mother's belongings. This underscores the importance of being aware of the risks associated with traditional rituals that involve prolonged contact with potentially contaminated objects.
This story highlights the importance of being aware of the risks associated with traditional customs and the need to adhere to advanced medical recommendations to prevent possible infectious diseases.