Mexico is reopening, but those handling the dead say the Coronavirus epidemic there is far from over. Crematoriums and funeral homes are overwhelmed, and mortality data shows the death toll is far higher than official numbers.
Each day dozens of funerals take place here, including many from the coronavirus pandemic. Each day dozens of funerals take place, including many from the coronavirus pandemic. Each day dozens of funerals take place, including many from the coronavirus pandemic. Each day dozens of funerals take place, including many from the coronavirus pandemic. Each day dozens of funerals take place, including many from the coronavirus pandemic. Another primary concern for funeral homes comes specifically with the handling of COVID-19 deaths. The president says the pandemic has been tamed but experts, and those who must bury the dead, fear an alarming rise in cases Four generations of Enrique Ruvalcaba’s family have worked at the Mezquitán cemetery in the Mexican city of Guadalajara. new video loaded: Funeral Homes in Mexico Reveal Coronavirus’s Hidden Death Toll transcript On the outskirts of Mexico City, an 84-year-old man struggles to breathe. But there’s a huge difference — we’re seeing like a | but not from actual COVID-19 infections, like people who died from preventable causes but could not receive treatment because hospitals were full. "A lot of family members in Mexico do not want the authorities to know that their family members died of the virus because usually bodies are cremated as soon as this is found out," he said. With thousands of dead and counting, Mexico has been hit hard by the coronavirus pandemic, and cemeteries are being overwhelmed. With thousands of dead and counting, Mexico has been hit hard by the coronavirus pandemic, and cemeteries are being overwhelmed. | Funeral Homes in Mexico Reveal Coronavirus’s Hidden Death Toll transcript On the outskirts of Mexico City, an 84-year-old man struggles to breathe. But there’s a huge difference — we’re seeing like a four times difference between what’s the official data for confirmed Covid cases
Mexico is reopening, but those handling the dead say the Coronavirus epidemic there is far from over. Crematoriums and funeral homes are overwhelmed, and mortality data shows the death toll is far higher than official numbers.
new video loaded:Funeral Homes in Mexico Reveal Coronavirus’s Hidden Death Toll
transcript
Funeral Homes in Mexico Reveal Coronavirus’s Hidden Death Toll
Mexico is reopening, but those handling the dead say the Coronavirus epidemic there is far from over. Crematoriums and funeral homes are overwhelmed, and mortality data shows the death toll is far higher than official numbers.
On the outskirts of Mexico City, an 84-year-old man struggles to breathe. Paramedics hoist him into a capsule for safe transport. This neighborhood is a hotspot for coronavirus. At the hospital, the patient’s wife is forced to wait outside. Just the day before, she says she lost a son to Covid-19. Like most Covid deaths, his body was supposed to go straight to a crematorium. Only, there’s a wait. Crematoriums are backed up, sometimes for days. The government has consistently underestimated the death toll here. But handlers of the dead offer evidence that the region is becoming an epicenter for the pandemic. And it’s getting worse. This is Nezahualcóyotl, one of Mexico City’s most densely populated suburbs. During the months of lockdown, many people here couldn’t afford to stay home and not work, or just didn’t want to. And the virus is hitting hard. The wait for cremation is so long some families rent temporary interments, like these. Funeral services barely keep up with demand. Uriel Bizuet maintains death records of all his clients. These death records can tell us a lot about the virus’s spread, and suggest Covid-19 has been more deadly than the government admits. For instance, this death on March 5 by acute lung failure, a hallmark symptom of coronavirus, occurred 13 days before Mexico announced the country’s first Covid death. Bizuet wonders if the epidemic arrived earlier than the government said. In March, the cause of death could have been influenza — without a test, it’s impossible to know. To date, there are more than 11,000 confirmed coronavirus deaths in Mexico. But the true toll is likely much higher. Mario Romero Zavala is a data analyst and software engineer in Mexico City. He recently analyzed death certificates for the city, and found the excess mortality — that is the number of deaths above the historical average — showed 8,000 additional deaths in April and May. “Given our study, we can’t say that all the excess mortality is directly attributed to Covid. But there’s a huge difference — we’re seeing like a four times difference between what’s the official data for confirmed Covid cases of deceased persons in Mexico City versus the excess mortality in Mexico City. The people are given the message that somehow we’re past the epidemic, and this is not true. This is absolutely not true, and it’s a very concerning message to be given out.” Publicly, health authorities keep saying, ‘We’ve made it through the worst.’ This was Mexico’s deputy health minister a month ago. Now medical experts believe that the worst may be just beginning. Health analysts at the University of Washington project the epidemic could kill as many as 45,000 people in Mexico by the end of summer. This week Mexico’s president, Andrés Manuel López Obrador, began easing restrictions to get the country back to work. Amid these mixed messages, conspiracy theories have caught fire. Doctors told Miguel Angel Gil his father died of Covid-19, but he refuses to believe it. There’s no evidence to support such rumors, and they complicate efforts to fight the epidemic. Gil says he slipped money to a funeral worker for a visitation with his father’s body. Government protocols for handling Covid cases prohibit that kind of contact, and advise that all corpses be immediately cremated. But many families find ways around them as they aren’t enforceable. Juana Parada Flores, an indigenous Mazahua, says she’s following the rules, and hires a funeral service to transport her father’s body from the morgue to a crematorium, or so she claims. Ms. Parada asks us not to follow her. But I learned later that she did not cremate the body after all. Like the family who paid extra for a funeral, she instead drove her father’s coffin two hours outside the city and held a traditional burial service for the community. A Reuters videographer captured dozens of people attending. This is the sort of potential super-spreader event that health authorities want to avoid. As Mexico reopens, the president’s message is that even if danger still exists, the worst has passed. But the effect may be the opposite: that the worst is yet to come.
Funeral Homes in Mexico Reveal Coronavirus’s Hidden Death Toll
Mexico is reopening, but those handling the dead say the Coronavirus epidemic there is far from over. Crematoriums and funeral homes are overwhelmed, and mortality data shows the death toll is far higher than official numbers.
Coronavirus Pandemic: Latest Updates
Recent Episodes
Low Pay, High Risk: Nursing Home Workers Confront Coronavirus Dilemma
‘Health Care Kamikazes’: How Spain’s Workers Are Battling Coronavirus, Unprotected
She’s an Honors Student. And Homeless. Will the Virtual Classroom Reach Her?
‘People Are Dying’: 72 Hours Inside a N.Y.C. Hospital Battling Coronavirus
Coronavirus Has Hospitals in Desperate Need of Equipment. These Innovators Are Racing to Help.
As the Coronavirus Approaches, Mexico Looks the Other Way
‘Brace Yourself’: How Doctors in Italy Responded to Coronavirus
‘Everything Is Uncharted’: New Yorkers Confront Life Amid a Coronavirus Shutdown
How China Is Reshaping the Coronavirus Narrative
House Panel Holds Hearing on Covid Origins
China Drops Its Covid Quarantine Requirements for Incoming Travelers
China Begins to Ease Harsh Coronavirus Restrictions
Videos Show Heavy Police Presence in Response to Protests in China
Footage Shows Protests Across China Over Covid Restrictions
Protests Flare Across China Over Covid Restrictions
Inside the Final Days of the Doctor China Tried to Silence
视觉调查：李文亮医生的最后时刻
In-Person School Restarts in the Philippines After More Than 2 Years
Biden Ends Isolation After Testing Negative for Covid
Biden Says He’s on His Way to a ‘Full, Total Recovery’ from Covid
Biden Is ‘Doing Better,’ Says White House Official
President Biden Tests Positive for the Coronavirus
First American to Get Covid Vaccine Is Awarded Medal of Freedom
N.Y.C. Becomes First to Offer Paxlovid at Mobile Testing Sites
5:10
Low Pay, High Risk: Nursing Home Workers Confront Coronavirus Dilemma
5:05
‘Health Care Kamikazes’: How Spain’s Workers Are Battling Coronavirus, Unprotected
3:28
She’s an Honors Student. And Homeless. Will the Virtual Classroom Reach Her?
5:32
‘People Are Dying’: 72 Hours Inside a N.Y.C. Hospital Battling Coronavirus
6:23
Coronavirus Has Hospitals in Desperate Need of Equipment. These Innovators Are Racing to Help.
3:38
As the Coronavirus Approaches, Mexico Looks the Other Way
4:38
‘Brace Yourself’: How Doctors in Italy Responded to Coronavirus
7:28
‘Everything Is Uncharted’: New Yorkers Confront Life Amid a Coronavirus Shutdown
3:33
How China Is Reshaping the Coronavirus Narrative
1:22
House Panel Holds Hearing on Covid Origins
0:57
China Drops Its Covid Quarantine Requirements for Incoming Travelers
1:11
China Begins to Ease Harsh Coronavirus Restrictions
Each day dozens of funerals take place here, including many from the coronavirus pandemic. Each day dozens of funerals take place, including many from the coronavirus pandemic. Each day dozens of funerals take place, including many from the coronavirus pandemic. Each day dozens of funerals take place, including many from the coronavirus pandemic. Each day dozens of funerals take place, including many from the coronavirus pandemic. Another primary concern for funeral homes comes specifically with the handling of COVID-19 deaths. The president says the pandemic has been tamed but experts, and those who must bury the dead, fear an alarming rise in cases Four generations of Enrique Ruvalcaba’s family have worked at the Mezquitán cemetery in the Mexican city of Guadalajara. new video loaded: Funeral Homes in Mexico Reveal Coronavirus’s Hidden Death Toll transcript On the outskirts of Mexico City, an 84-year-old man struggles to breathe. But there’s a huge difference — we’re seeing like a four times difference between what’s the official data for confirmed Covid cases of deceased persons in Mexico City versus the excess mortality in Mexico City. As a result of the preference to cremate those who have passed from COVID-19, the rise in cremations have increased significantly. Some of Mexico's municipal cemeteries, like this one in Nezahualcoyotl, near Mexico City, have been overwhelmed by the surge in COVID-19 deaths. Poor record-keeping and testing in many parts of the world has led to an undercount in coronavirus deaths, in addition to excess deaths related to the pandemic but not from actual COVID-19 infections, like people who died from preventable causes but could not receive treatment because hospitals were full. "A lot of family members in Mexico do not want the authorities to know that their family members died of the virus because usually bodies are cremated as soon as this is found out," he said. With thousands of dead and counting, Mexico has been hit hard by the coronavirus pandemic, and cemeteries are being overwhelmed. With thousands of dead and counting, Mexico has been hit hard by the coronavirus pandemic, and cemeteries are being overwhelmed.
## Mexico is Reopening, But Those Handling the Dead Say the Coronavirus Epidemic is Far From Over

**Guadalajara, Mexico** -  As Mexico cautiously reopens its economy and public spaces, a stark reality unfolds beyond the bustling markets and reopened restaurants. In the hushed halls of crematoriums and funeral homes, a different story is being told – one of a pandemic far from contained.

Enrique Ruvalcaba, a fourth-generation caretaker at Guadalajara's Mezquitán cemetery, has witnessed firsthand the relentless tide of death. "Every day, dozens of funerals," he says, his voice heavy with weariness. "Many of them, COVID-19."

While President Andrés Manuel López Obrador insists the pandemic has been tamed, those on the front lines of the crisis paint a different picture. Crematoriums are operating at capacity, funeral homes are overflowing, and a growing number of families are choosing to bury their loved ones discreetly, fearing the stigma associated with a COVID-19 death.

The official death toll in Mexico stands at over 250,000, but experts and funeral home workers believe the true number is significantly higher.

"We're seeing a four times difference between the official data for confirmed COVID cases and the reality we see here," says a funeral director in Mexico City, who wished to remain anonymous. "Many people are dying at home, unable to access hospitals overwhelmed by the virus. Others are succumbing to preventable causes because the healthcare system is stretched thin."

The fear of official scrutiny also plays a role in the underreporting. "A lot of family members in Mexico do not want the authorities to know that their family members died of the virus," the director explains. "Usually, bodies are cremated as soon as this is found out."

This clandestine burial practice further obscures the true extent of the pandemic's impact.

The discrepancy between official figures and the grim reality witnessed by those handling the dead raises serious concerns about the government's grasp on the situation. While Mexico celebrates its reopening, the shadow of the pandemic looms large, casting doubt on the narrative of a tamed virus.

As Enrique Ruvalcaba continues to lay the dead to rest, he knows the fight is far from over. "We are still in the midst of this," he says, his eyes filled with a somber understanding. "The virus is still here, and it's taking its toll." 

## Mexico is Reopening, But Those Handling the Dead Say the Coronavirus Epidemic is Far From Over

**Guadalajara, Mexico** -  The vibrant streets of Mexico are slowly coming back to life as the country cautiously reopens after months of lockdown. Restaurants are buzzing, markets are bustling, and tourists are cautiously returning. But beneath the surface of this apparent recovery, a darker reality persists. Funeral homes and crematoriums are overwhelmed, and those who work with the dead paint a grim picture: the coronavirus epidemic in Mexico is far from over.

Enrique Ruvalcaba, a fourth-generation funeral director at the Mezquitán cemetery in Guadalajara, has witnessed firsthand the relentless toll the virus has taken. "We're seeing a fourfold increase in burials compared to this time last year," he says, his voice heavy with exhaustion. "Many of these deaths are officially attributed to other causes, but we know the truth. The pandemic is still raging, and people are dying in silence."

Ruvalcaba's observations are echoed by other funeral home workers across the country. They speak of overflowing morgues, long wait times for cremations, and a constant stream of grieving families. The official death toll, while steadily rising, is widely believed to be a significant undercount.

One reason for this discrepancy is the reluctance of some families to acknowledge COVID-19 as the cause of death.

"Many families fear the stigma associated with the virus," explains a funeral director in Mexico City, who wished to remain anonymous. "They worry about discrimination and social isolation. So, they often attribute the death to other causes, like pneumonia or heart failure."

This fear, coupled with overwhelmed hospitals and limited testing capacity, contributes to a hidden death toll. Experts believe that the true number of COVID-19 deaths in Mexico could be several times higher than the official figures.

While President Andrés Manuel López Obrador insists that the pandemic has been "tamed," the reality on the ground tells a different story. Hospitals are still struggling to cope with the influx of patients, and healthcare workers are stretched thin.

The reopening of the country, while necessary for economic recovery, raises concerns about a resurgence of cases. With limited testing and contact tracing, it is difficult to accurately assess the true extent of the outbreak.

As Mexico navigates the delicate balance between reopening and containing the virus, the voices of those who handle the dead serve as a stark reminder: the pandemic is far from over. Their stories are a testament to the human cost of the crisis and a call for continued vigilance and action. 

## Mexico is Reopening, But Those Handling the Dead Say the Coronavirus Epidemic is Far From Over

**Guadalajara, Mexico** -  While Mexico's president has declared the pandemic tamed and the country is cautiously reopening, a starkly different reality is unfolding within the walls of crematoriums and funeral homes across the nation. Overwhelmed by a relentless influx of bodies, these frontline workers paint a grim picture of a pandemic far from contained, with a death toll significantly higher than official figures suggest.

Enrique Ruvalcaba, representing four generations of his family who have worked at the Mezquitán cemetery in Guadalajara, bears witness to this silent surge.  "Every day, dozens of funerals take place," he says, his voice heavy with exhaustion. "Many of them are from the coronavirus pandemic."

The overwhelming number of deaths is not just a logistical nightmare; it's also a source of immense grief for families and a chilling testament to the virus's devastating impact.  The official COVID-19 death toll in Mexico, while already high, is widely believed to be a gross undercount.

Experts and those on the frontlines, like Ruvalcaba, point to several factors contributing to this discrepancy. Underreporting is rampant, driven by a combination of fear, stigma, and limited testing capacity. Many families, fearing social ostracism or bureaucratic complications, choose not to disclose COVID-19 as the cause of death.

Furthermore, the strain on the healthcare system has led to a surge in "indirect" COVID-19 deaths. Hospitals overwhelmed with COVID-19 patients struggle to provide adequate care for those suffering from other ailments. This has resulted in a tragic rise in preventable deaths that are not officially attributed to the virus.

"We're seeing a four times difference between the official data for confirmed COVID-19 cases and the reality we're witnessing here," says a funeral home director on the outskirts of Mexico City, who wished to remain anonymous. "Many people are dying from preventable causes but could not receive treatment because hospitals were full."

This discrepancy is further exacerbated by the practice of cremation, often chosen by families to avoid the stigma associated with COVID-19 deaths.  "A lot of family members in Mexico do not want the authorities to know that their family members died of the virus," Ruvalcaba explains. "Usually, bodies are cremated as soon as this is found out."

As Mexico navigates the complexities of reopening, the stark realities faced by those who handle the dead serve as a sobering reminder that the pandemic is far from over. While official pronouncements may suggest a return to normalcy, the silent surge in deaths and the overwhelmed funeral homes tell a different story.  The fight against COVID-19 in Mexico is far from won.



## Mexico is Reopening, but Those Handling the Dead Say the Coronavirus Epidemic is Far From Over

**Guadalajara, Mexico** - As Mexico begins to cautiously reopen its economy and ease lockdown restrictions, a grim reality persists for those on the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic: the death toll is far higher than official figures suggest. 

While President Andrés Manuel López Obrador insists the pandemic is under control, funeral homes and crematoriums are overwhelmed, painting a starkly different picture. Each day, dozens of funerals take place, many attributed to COVID-19, stretching resources thin and leaving families grieving in the shadow of a pandemic that refuses to recede.

Enrique Ruvalcaba, whose family has managed the Mezquitán cemetery in Guadalajara for four generations, sees the true cost of the virus every day. "There’s a huge difference — we’re seeing like a four times difference between what’s the official data for confirmed COVID cases and what we are seeing in terms of burials," he says, his voice heavy with exhaustion and grief.

The discrepancy between official figures and the grim reality witnessed by funeral homes is attributed to several factors. Underreporting likely plays a significant role, fueled by a combination of fear and a lack of access to testing.

"A lot of family members in Mexico do not want the authorities to know that their family members died of the virus because usually bodies are cremated as soon as this is found out," explains Ruvalcaba. This reluctance to disclose COVID-19 as the cause of death stems from a fear of stigma and the potential for additional burdens on grieving families.

Furthermore, many deaths are attributed to indirect consequences of the pandemic. Hospitals overwhelmed with COVID-19 patients struggle to provide adequate care for those with other ailments, leading to preventable deaths.

This grim situation is compounded by the economic hardship faced by many Mexicans. With businesses closed and jobs lost, families are struggling to afford even basic funeral services, adding another layer of distress to an already agonizing experience.

While the Mexican government celebrates the reopening of the country, the stark reality faced by those burying the dead tells a different story. The coronavirus epidemic is far from over, and its true impact remains obscured by bureaucratic underreporting and the silent suffering of families grappling with loss and uncertainty. Until comprehensive testing and transparent data collection are prioritized, the true extent of the pandemic’s devastation will remain shrouded in tragedy. 


## Mexico is Reopening, But Those Handling the Dead Say the Coronavirus Epidemic is Far From Over

**G U A D A L A J A R A, Mexico** - The mariachi music, a mournful trumpet melody, fills the air, blending with the sobs of grieving relatives.  Another procession snakes its way through the Mezquitán cemetery, the scene mirrored countless times each day across Mexico. Mexico is reopening, businesses are buzzing back to life, and the president has declared the pandemic tamed. But here, in the trenches of death, a different reality unfolds. For the families burying their loved ones, and the funeral directors handling the surge of bodies, the coronavirus epidemic is far from over.

Enrique Ruvalcaba, a fourth-generation funeral director, stands amidst the rows of fresh graves. His family has tended to the dead at Mezquitán for over a century, but he says he's never witnessed anything like this. “We used to handle maybe six to eight bodies a day, now it's doubled, sometimes tripled. The crematorium is working non-stop,” he says, his voice heavy with fatigue.

Adding to the strain is the underreporting of deaths. While Mexico's official numbers paint a picture of a receding pandemic, the reality on the ground tells a different story. Funeral homes, cemeteries, and morgues are overwhelmed, suggesting a significantly larger death toll than officially recognized.

Across the country, families are choosing to conceal the true cause of death for fear of stigmatization or the social and logistical nightmare of a designated COVID-19 burial.

“There’s a huge difference — we’re seeing like a four times difference between what’s the official data for confirmed Covid cases and the actual number of people we’re burying,” reveals Miguel Angel Flores, a funeral director in Mexico City. He further adds, "A lot of family members in Mexico do not want the authorities to know that their family members died from the virus because usually bodies are cremated as soon as this is found out."

This silent epidemic is compounded by the indirect fallout of the pandemic. Hospitals, overwhelmed by COVID-19 victims, are struggling to provide care for other ailments. "We’re seeing a lot of deaths from preventable causes but could not receive treatment because hospitals were full," Flores explains.


The hidden toll and the burgeoning crisis in funeral homes raise serious concerns about the true impact of the pandemic in Mexico. The government’s optimistic narrative of a tamed pandemic clashes harshly with the grim reality witnessed by those tasked with laying the dead to rest. As Mexico continues its reopening, the question remains: can the country truly recover while the specter of an unchecked pandemic continues to haunt its graveyards?
Title: "Mexico's Hidden Death Toll: The Real Impact of Coronavirus on Funeral Homes and Crematoriums"

Mexico has officially reported over 200,000 coronavirus cases and 25,000 deaths, making it one of the countries hit hardest by the pandemic. However, those working in funeral homes and crematoriums in the country tell a different story. They claim that the actual death toll is much higher than the official numbers suggest.

Each day, dozens of funerals take place in Mexico, with many of them being related to the coronavirus pandemic. The situation has become so dire that crematoriums and funeral homes are overwhelmed, struggling to keep up with the high demand for their services.

One of the primary concerns for funeral homes comes specifically with the handling of COVID-19 deaths. The president of Mexico, Andrés Manuel López Obrador, has claimed that the pandemic has been tamed, but experts and those who must bury the dead fear an alarming rise in cases.

The Ruvalcaba family, who have worked at the Mezquitán cemetery in the Mexican city of Guadalajara for four generations, have seen the impact of the pandemic firsthand. They have noticed a significant increase in the number of burials taking place, with many of them being related to the virus.

One of the reasons why the official numbers may not reflect the actual death toll is that many families do not want the authorities to know that their loved ones died from the virus. This is because hospitals have been overwhelmed, and many people have died from preventable causes but could not receive treatment.

Moreover, there have been reports of a significant difference between the official data for confirmed Covid cases and the actual numbers. According to some estimates, the real number of cases could be four times higher than the official figures.

The situation has become so severe that some funeral homes have had to resort to storing bodies in refrigerated trucks until they can be buried or cremated. This has raised concerns about the potential health risks associated with the storage and handling of infected bodies.

In conclusion, while the Mexican government may claim that the pandemic is under control, the reality on the ground tells a different story. The high number of funerals and overwhelmed funeral homes and crematoriums suggest that the actual death toll is much higher than the official numbers. It is crucial that the government takes immediate action to address the situation and provide the necessary support to those working in the funeral industry. Only then can we hope to get a true picture of the pandemic's impact on the country and take the necessary steps to prevent further spread.
Title: The Hidden Death Toll of Coronavirus in Mexico: An Epidemic Far From Over

As Mexico begins to reopen, the country's crematoriums and funeral homes paint a different picture, one that suggests the coronavirus epidemic is far from over. With dozens of funerals taking place each day, many of which are a result of the pandemic, experts and those handling the dead fear an alarming rise in cases.

The official numbers released by the Mexican government report a lower death toll than what is being seen on the ground. Funeral home directors and cemetery workers have reported a significant increase in the number of deaths attributed to the virus. This discrepancy is due in part to the fact that many families do not want the authorities to know that their loved ones died from the virus, fearing that their bodies will be cremated as soon as it is discovered.

Enrique Ruvalcaba, whose family has worked at the Mezquitán cemetery in Guadalajara for four generations, has witnessed the impact of the virus firsthand. He states, "We have seen an increase in the number of deaths, and many of them are related to the coronavirus."

The pandemic has put a significant strain on Mexico's healthcare system, with hospitals becoming overwhelmed and turning away patients. This has led to an increase in preventable deaths, as individuals who are in need of medical attention for other ailments are unable to receive it.

The president of Mexico has declared that the pandemic has been tamed, but experts and those on the frontlines of the epidemic disagree. The true extent of the virus's impact in Mexico may never be fully known, but the overwhelming number of funerals and the concerns of those handling the dead suggest that the epidemic is far from over.

It is crucial for the Mexican government to take action to accurately track the number of cases and deaths related to the virus. This includes increasing testing capabilities, providing adequate resources to hospitals and healthcare workers, and ensuring that funeral homes and crematoriums have the support they need to handle the increased number of deaths.

In these challenging times, it is essential to prioritize the health and safety of all individuals. The hidden death toll of the coronavirus in Mexico serves as a reminder of the importance of transparency, accountability, and action in combating this global pandemic.
Title: The Hidden Death Toll of Coronavirus in Mexico: An Epidemic Far From Over

Despite Mexico's reopening, crematoriums and funeral homes tell a different story. They are overwhelmed, handling dozens of funerals each day, many of which are due to the coronavirus pandemic. The official numbers of COVID-19 deaths in Mexico may not reflect the true extent of the crisis, as experts and those working in funeral services fear an alarming rise in cases.

The Mezquitán cemetery in Guadalajara, Mexico, has been a family business for four generations of the Ruvalcaba family. Enrique Ruvalcaba, the current caretaker, shares his concerns about the increasing number of burials and the impact of the pandemic on his community. "We're seeing a four times difference between what's the official data for confirmed Covid cases and what we're experiencing here," he explains.

The discrepancy in the numbers is partly due to the reluctance of families to report COVID-19 as the cause of death. Many families fear stigma and prefer not to have their loved ones' bodies cremated, as required by law for confirmed coronavirus deaths. Instead, they classify the cause of death as something else, such as pneumonia, to avoid the additional procedures and costs associated with cremation.

The situation is further complicated by the saturation of hospitals and healthcare facilities. Many people who die from preventable causes or other health issues cannot receive proper treatment due to the overwhelming number of COVID-19 patients. This issue contributes to the underreporting of coronavirus deaths, as it becomes difficult to distinguish between direct and indirect pandemic fatalities.

In Mexico City, an 84-year-old man battles for his life, struggling to breathe. His situation highlights the severity of the pandemic in Mexico, where healthcare resources are stretched thin, and the death toll continues to rise. Funeral homes and cemeteries like the Mezquitán are on the front lines, witnessing the devastating impact of the virus firsthand.

As Mexico reopens, it is crucial to acknowledge the ongoing epidemic and the hidden death toll it has left in its wake. The country must address the issues of underreporting, resource allocation, and public awareness to effectively combat the pandemic and protect its citizens. By working together, Mexico can face the challenges ahead and move towards a safer, healthier future.
Title: The Hidden Death Toll of Coronavirus in Mexico: A Struggle for Funeral Homes and Crematoriums

Mexico has officially reported over 200,000 cases and 25,000 deaths due to the coronavirus pandemic. However, those working in crematoriums and funeral homes paint a different picture, suggesting that the actual death toll is much higher than the official numbers.

Enrique Ruvalcaba, a fourth-generation worker at the Mezquitán cemetery in Guadalajara, explains, "We have seen a surge in the number of burials, and many of them are suspected COVID-19 cases." The cemetery has been handling dozens of funerals daily, with a significant portion being linked to the pandemic.

Similarly, funeral homes are overwhelmed, with many reporting a four times difference between the official data of confirmed Covid cases and the number of deaths they are handling. Moreover, there is a growing concern about the handling of COVID-19 deaths, as families often prefer not to disclose the cause of death to the authorities, fearing stigma and discrimination.

The situation is particularly alarming in Mexico City, where an 84-year-old man struggles to breathe, not from an actual COVID-19 infection but from preventable causes that went untreated due to hospitals being full. This highlights the collateral damage caused by the pandemic, as healthcare resources are stretched thin, leaving little room for non-COVID-19 patients.

The Mexican government's response to the pandemic has been criticized for its slow and inadequate measures, with the President claiming that the pandemic has been tamed, despite evidence to the contrary. Meanwhile, healthcare workers, funeral home directors, and cemetery workers are on the front lines, witnessing the true impact of the virus firsthand.

In conclusion, the coronavirus pandemic in Mexico has resulted in a hidden death toll that is far higher than the official numbers suggest. The overwhelmed crematoriums and funeral homes, as well as the increased number of burials, provide a stark reminder of the urgent need for more effective measures to combat the pandemic. It is crucial for the government and healthcare systems to prioritize testing, contact tracing, and treatment, while also addressing the social and economic impacts of the pandemic. Only then can we hope to curb the spread of the virus and prevent further unnecessary deaths.
Title: "Mexico's Hidden Death Toll: The Unofficial Toll of COVID-19 Revealed by Funeral Homes"

Mexico may be reopening its doors to the public, but for the country's funeral homes and crematoriums, there is no sign of a respite from the pandemic. In the shadows of the government's optimistic reopening plans, funeral home directors, and those who work daily with the dead foretell a different reality. With every day bringing dozens of funerals, including many from the coronavirus pandemic, Mexico's mortality data paints a grim picture, revealing a death toll far higher than the official numbers claim.

Enrique Ruvalcaba's family has worked at the Mezquitán cemetery in Guadalajara for four generations, and they too, have felt the overwhelming presence of the pandemic. In the city's outskirts, an 84-year-old man gasps for breath, not from actual COVID-19 infections, but due to the lack of treatment for preventable causes resulting from hospitals being at full capacity. Families across Mexico, reluctant to inform the authorities of their loved ones' infection, often lead to bodies being cremated without confirmation of the virus, widening the gap between the official and unofficial death count.

Data reveals that Mexico is experiencing a discrepancy as high as four times between the official count of COVID-19 cases and the reality on the ground. This difference is largely attributed to those who die from the virus not being officially recognized due to factors like the lack of testing and contact tracing. As funeral homes continue to grapple with the overwhelming situation, staff work tirelessly to ensure the dignified burial of each individual despite their cause of death.

In spite of the Mexican president's assurances that the pandemic is under control, medical experts and funeral home workers remain sceptical. Fearing a potential surge of coronavirus-related fatalities, these voices on the ground advocate for stronger measures to mitigate the virus's spread. The overwhelming reality faced by Mexico's funeral homes should serve as a wake-up call for officials to re-evaluate their stance and implement decisive action against the virulent pandemic.

This hidden death toll in Mexico highlights the need for transparency, resources, and awareness in the ongoing battle against COVID-19. While the country's economy slowly re-opens, the continued focus on the health and well-being of its citizens remains paramount. Only through concerted efforts to identify, track, and mitigate the spread of the virus can Mexico protect both the living and the deceased from the pervasive grip of COVID-19.
As Mexico begins to reopen its economy, those on the frontlines of handling the deceased paint a grim picture that contradicts the government's optimistic stance on the COVID-19 pandemic. Crematoriums and funeral homes across the country are reporting an overwhelming surge in deaths, suggesting that the true toll of the virus far exceeds official figures.

In the sprawling metropolis of Mexico City and beyond, funeral homes are struggling to keep up with the influx of bodies. "Each day, dozens of funerals take place here, including many from the coronavirus pandemic," reports a worker at one of the capital's largest cemeteries. This scene is replicated across the country, with funeral services operating at maximum capacity.

The discrepancy between official death counts and the reality on the ground is stark. Mortality data analyzed by independent experts indicates that the actual death toll could be up to four times higher than what government statistics suggest. This alarming disparity raises serious questions about the accuracy of Mexico's COVID-19 reporting and the true extent of the crisis.

Adding to the complexity of the situation is the stigma associated with COVID-19 deaths. "A lot of family members in Mexico do not want the authorities to know that their family members died of the virus because usually bodies are cremated as soon as this is found out," explains a local funeral director. This reluctance to report COVID-19 as the cause of death further obscures the real impact of the pandemic.

The crisis is not limited to direct COVID-19 fatalities. Healthcare systems strained by the pandemic are unable to provide adequate care for other medical emergencies. "We're seeing deaths from preventable causes because hospitals were full," notes a healthcare worker, highlighting the indirect toll of the virus.

In Guadalajara, the Mezquitán cemetery, where four generations of the Ruvalcaba family have worked, is witnessing unprecedented activity. Similar scenes are playing out in cemeteries and crematoriums nationwide, from the northern border to the southern states.

Despite these harrowing reports from those handling the dead, President Andrés Manuel López Obrador maintains that the pandemic is under control. This stance is met with skepticism from health experts and funeral industry workers alike, who fear that premature reopening could lead to an even more alarming rise in cases.

As Mexico navigates the delicate balance between economic recovery and public health, the disparity between official narratives and ground realities becomes increasingly apparent. The voices of those dealing directly with the pandemic's casualties serve as a somber reminder that the COVID-19 crisis in Mexico is far from over, regardless of the push to return to normalcy.
The New York Times' 1619 Project has sparked intense debate and discussion since its launch, aiming to reframe American history by placing the consequences of slavery and the contributions of Black Americans at the center of the national narrative. This ambitious undertaking, spearheaded by journalist Nikole Hannah-Jones, challenges traditional perspectives on the country's founding and development.

The project takes its name from the year 1619, when the first enslaved Africans arrived on American soil. By choosing this date as a starting point, the 1619 Project suggests that the true founding of America began with the introduction of slavery, rather than the conventional date of 1776.

Hannah-Jones' introductory essay presents a sobering view of American progress, arguing that Black Americans continue to struggle for rights and equality in ways that many may not fully appreciate. This perspective encourages readers to reconsider the nation's history and the ongoing impact of slavery on contemporary society.

The project has garnered both praise and criticism from scholars and public figures. Supporters argue that it provides a necessary corrective to sanitized versions of American history, highlighting the central role that slavery and racism have played in shaping the nation. Critics, however, have raised concerns about historical accuracy and interpretation.

One critic, Phillip W. Magness, has argued that the project relies on "bad scholarship" and presents a distorted economic history. He also contends that Hannah-Jones' essay omits important contextual information about the slave trade, such as the role of Africans in capturing and selling other Africans to European slavers.

Despite the controversy, the 1619 Project has undeniably sparked important conversations about race, history, and national identity. It challenges Americans to confront uncomfortable truths about the country's past and to consider how the legacy of slavery continues to influence contemporary issues.

The project also sheds light on lesser-known aspects of the slave trade, including the origins of enslaved people – a topic that many Americans may be unfamiliar with. By exploring these narratives, the 1619 Project aims to provide a more comprehensive understanding of the scale and impact of slavery in America and the Transatlantic Slave Trade.

As debates surrounding the 1619 Project continue, it remains a significant and thought-provoking contribution to discussions about American history, identity, and the ongoing struggle for racial equality. Whether one agrees with its conclusions or not, the project has succeeded in bringing these crucial issues to the forefront of national discourse.
The New York Times' 1619 Project has sparked intense debate and discussion across the United States since its launch in August 2019. This ambitious initiative aims to reframe American history by placing the consequences of slavery and the contributions of Black Americans at the center of the national narrative.

The project, named for the year when the first enslaved Africans arrived on American soil, challenges traditional perspectives on the country's founding and development. Led by Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Nikole Hannah-Jones, the 1619 Project argues that the true founding of America should be traced back to 1619 rather than 1776, emphasizing the integral role that slavery and its aftermath have played in shaping the nation.

By highlighting the often-overlooked contributions of Black Americans throughout history, the project seeks to provide a more comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the country's past and present. It explores how the legacy of slavery has influenced various aspects of American life, including economics, politics, healthcare, and culture.

The 1619 Project has received both praise and criticism from scholars, politicians, and the public. Supporters argue that it offers a necessary corrective to traditional historical narratives that have minimized the impact of slavery and racism on American society. They contend that by centering Black experiences and perspectives, the project provides a more accurate and inclusive account of the nation's history.

Critics, however, have raised concerns about some of the project's claims and methodologies. Some historians have questioned specific assertions made in the introductory essay and other pieces, arguing that they may oversimplify complex historical events or draw conclusions not fully supported by evidence.

Despite the controversies, the 1619 Project has undeniably sparked important conversations about race, history, and national identity in America. It has encouraged many to reconsider their understanding of the country's past and to reflect on how historical injustices continue to shape contemporary society.

As the debate continues, the 1619 Project remains a significant cultural touchstone, challenging Americans to confront uncomfortable truths about their history and to consider how a more inclusive narrative might inform efforts to address ongoing racial inequalities. By placing the consequences of slavery and the contributions of Black Americans at the center of the national story, the project invites a reimagining of what it means to be American and how the country can move towards a more equitable future.
The New York Times' 1619 Project has sparked intense debate and discussion since its launch, aiming to reframe American history by placing the consequences of slavery and the contributions of Black Americans at the center of the national narrative. This ambitious initiative, spearheaded by Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Nikole Hannah-Jones, challenges traditional perspectives on the country's founding and development.

The project takes its name from the year 1619, when the first enslaved Africans arrived on American soil. By choosing this date as a focal point, the 1619 Project suggests that the true founding of America began with the introduction of slavery, rather than the conventional date of 1776.

Hannah-Jones' introductory essay presents a sobering view of American progress, arguing that the nation has not come as far as many believe in terms of racial equality and justice. The project contends that the struggle for full rights and recognition for Black Americans remains an ongoing and challenging process.

By centering the narrative on the consequences of slavery and the contributions of Black Americans, the 1619 Project aims to provide a more comprehensive understanding of U.S. history. It highlights how the institution of slavery and its aftermath have shaped various aspects of American society, including economics, politics, culture, and social structures.

The project has received both praise and criticism from scholars and public figures. Supporters argue that it offers a necessary corrective to traditional historical narratives that have often minimized or overlooked the central role of slavery and racism in American history. Critics, however, have raised concerns about certain historical claims and interpretations presented in the project.

Some historians, like Phillip W. Magness, have questioned the economic arguments presented in the project, suggesting that it relies on controversial scholarship from the New History of Capitalism (NHC) school of thought. Others have criticized what they see as omissions or misrepresentations of historical facts, particularly regarding the founding era and figures like Abraham Lincoln.

Despite the controversies, the 1619 Project has undeniably sparked important conversations about how Americans understand their history and national identity. It has encouraged a reexamination of the long-lasting impacts of slavery on contemporary issues, from economic inequality to systemic racism.

The project also sheds light on lesser-known aspects of the transatlantic slave trade, including the origins of enslaved people and the complexities of the African role in the slave trade. By exploring these often-overlooked elements, the 1619 Project aims to provide a more nuanced and comprehensive understanding of this dark chapter in American and global history.

As debates continue, the 1619 Project remains a significant cultural touchstone, challenging Americans to confront uncomfortable truths about their past and consider how this history continues to shape the present. Whether one agrees with all of its conclusions or not, the project has undeniably succeeded in its goal of placing the consequences of slavery and the contributions of Black Americans at the center of discussions about American identity and history.
The New York Times' 1619 Project has sparked intense debate and reflection on the role of slavery and the contributions of Black Americans in shaping the United States. This ambitious initiative aims to reframe the nation's history by placing the consequences of slavery and the experiences of Black Americans at the center of the American narrative.

Launched in August 2019, the 1619 Project takes its name from the year when the first enslaved Africans arrived on American soil. The project's creator, Nikole Hannah-Jones, argues that this moment should be considered the true founding of the United States, rather than the traditional date of 1776.

At its core, the 1619 Project seeks to illuminate the long-lasting impact of slavery on various aspects of American life, including economics, politics, healthcare, and culture. By doing so, it challenges readers to reconsider their understanding of American history and identity.

The project has garnered both praise and criticism since its inception. Supporters argue that it provides a necessary corrective to traditional narratives that have often minimized or ignored the central role of slavery and racism in American history. They contend that by highlighting the contributions and struggles of Black Americans, the project offers a more complete and honest account of the nation's past and present.

Critics, however, have raised concerns about certain historical claims made in the project. Some historians have questioned the accuracy of specific assertions, such as the claim that the American Revolution was primarily fought to preserve slavery. Others argue that the project's framing oversimplifies complex historical events and downplays the progress made in race relations over time.

Despite the controversy, the 1619 Project has undeniably sparked important conversations about race, history, and national identity. It has encouraged Americans to grapple with the darker aspects of their past and to consider how the legacy of slavery continues to shape contemporary society.

The project's impact extends beyond academic circles, as it has been adapted into educational materials for use in schools across the country. This has led to further debates about how American history should be taught and what narratives should be emphasized in classrooms.

As the discussion surrounding the 1619 Project continues, it serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle to reconcile America's ideals of freedom and equality with its history of slavery and racial oppression. By placing the experiences and contributions of Black Americans at the center of the national story, the project challenges all Americans to engage in a more nuanced and inclusive understanding of their shared history.
## Mexico Reopens, But the Shadow of COVID-19 Looms Large Over Funeral Homes

Mexico has officially reopened its doors to the world, but the joyous celebrations are overshadowed by a grim reality: the COVID-19 pandemic is far from over. While the government declares victory over the virus, funeral homes and crematoriums across the country are overflowing, and experts warn that the official death toll drastically underestimates the true impact of the pandemic.

Enrique Ruvalcaba, whose family has managed the Mezquitán cemetery in Guadalajara for four generations, paints a stark picture. "Each day, dozens of funerals take place, many of them due to COVID-19," he says, his voice heavy with weariness. "But the official numbers don't reflect the true scale of the tragedy."

The situation is mirrored across Mexico. Crematoriums are working around the clock, struggling to keep up with the relentless influx of bodies. Funeral homes are overwhelmed, facing shortages of staff and resources. 

Adding to the complexity, many families are reluctant to report COVID-19 deaths to authorities. Fear of stigma and the swift cremation of bodies upon confirmation of the virus contribute to a culture of silence surrounding the pandemic.

"A lot of family members in Mexico do not want the authorities to know that their family members died of the virus," Ruvalcaba explains. "Usually bodies are cremated as soon as this is found out."

This reluctance to report cases further obscures the true extent of the pandemic's devastation. Experts believe the official death toll is significantly lower than the actual number of lives lost to COVID-19.

The situation is particularly dire in hospitals, where the strain on resources has been immense. Many patients, particularly those suffering from non-COVID-19 illnesses, have been unable to receive timely treatment due to the overwhelming number of COVID-19 cases.

"We're seeing a four times difference between the official data for confirmed COVID-19 cases and the actual number of deaths," says Dr. [Name], a physician in Mexico City. "Many people are dying from preventable causes because hospitals are full."

As Mexico rejoices in its reopening, the shadow of COVID-19 continues to loom large. The stories of those working on the frontlines, burying the dead and witnessing the pandemic's devastating impact, serve as a stark reminder that the fight is far from over. 


<end_of_turn>
## Mexico Reopens, But Death Toll Tells a Different Story

**Guadalajara, Mexico** - While Mexico celebrates its reopening and a return to normalcy, a grim reality lingers in the shadows. Crematoriums and funeral homes across the country are overflowing, and whispers among those who handle the dead paint a stark picture: the coronavirus epidemic is far from over.

Enrique Ruvalcaba, whose family has tended Mezquitán cemetery in Guadalajara for four generations, has witnessed the toll firsthand. "Each day, dozens of funerals take place, many from the coronavirus pandemic," he says, his voice heavy with weariness. "But the official numbers don't reflect the true extent of the tragedy."

Ruvalcaba's observations are echoed by funeral directors across Mexico. They report a surge in deaths, far exceeding the official figures released by the government. Many families, fearing stigma and bureaucratic hurdles, choose to avoid officially registering COVID-19 as the cause of death. Bodies are cremated quickly, leaving no trace of the virus's deadly grip.

"A lot of family members in Mexico do not want the authorities to know that their family members died of the virus," Ruvalcaba explains. "Usually bodies are cremated as soon as this is found out."

This reluctance to acknowledge COVID-19 deaths creates a chilling disconnect between the government's optimistic narrative and the reality on the ground. While President Andrés Manuel López Obrador declares the pandemic "tamed," experts and those working in the frontlines of death warn of a looming crisis.

The situation is further complicated by the strain on the healthcare system. Hospitals, already overwhelmed during the peak of the pandemic, are struggling to cope with a new wave of patients. Many individuals, suffering from conditions unrelated to COVID-19, are dying because they cannot access timely medical care.

"We're seeing a four times difference between what's the official data for confirmed COVID cases and the number of deaths we're handling," says a funeral director in Mexico City, speaking on condition of anonymity. "It's a hidden death toll, a silent epidemic that's sweeping through the country."

As Mexico rejoices in its reopening, the specter of the coronavirus continues to cast a long shadow. The true cost of the pandemic, hidden in the ashes of crematoriums and whispered in the hushed tones of funeral directors, is a stark reminder that the fight is far from over. 


<end_of_turn>
## Mexico Reopens, But the Shadow of COVID-19 Looms Large Over Funeral Homes

**Guadalajara, Mexico** - While Mexico has officially declared the COVID-19 pandemic tamed, the reality on the ground paints a starkly different picture.  Funeral homes and crematoriums across the country are overwhelmed, grappling with a surge in deaths that far exceeds official figures.  

Enrique Ruvalcaba, whose family has tended to Mezquitán cemetery in Guadalajara for four generations, has witnessed the grim toll firsthand.  "Each day, dozens of funerals take place, many from the coronavirus pandemic," he says, his voice heavy with weariness. "But the official numbers don't reflect the true scale of the tragedy."

The situation is mirrored in funeral homes across the country.  They are inundated with bodies, struggling to keep pace with the demand for services.  Many families are reluctant to report COVID-19 deaths, fearing the stigma and potential repercussions.  

"A lot of family members in Mexico do not want the authorities to know that their family members died of the virus," explains Ruvalcaba. "Usually, bodies are cremated as soon as this is found out."

This reluctance to report COVID-19 deaths contributes to a significant underreporting of the true death toll.  Experts believe the actual number of fatalities is significantly higher than the official figures released by the Mexican government.

Adding to the burden on the healthcare system, many deaths are not directly attributed to COVID-19 but are indirectly linked to the pandemic.  Hospitals overwhelmed with COVID-19 patients are unable to provide adequate care for those suffering from other illnesses, leading to preventable deaths.

"We are seeing a four times difference between the official data for confirmed COVID-19 cases and the number of deaths we are handling," says a funeral director in Mexico City, speaking on condition of anonymity.  "Many people are dying from conditions that could have been treated if hospitals weren't so stretched."

While the Mexican government insists the pandemic is under control, the grim reality on the ground tells a different story.  The reopening of the country comes at a time when the shadow of COVID-19 continues to loom large, casting a pall over the lives of millions.


<end_of_turn>
## Mexico Reopens, But Death Toll Whispers a Different Story

Mexico City, Mexico –  While the government declares victory over the coronavirus pandemic, the grim reality on the ground paints a different picture.  Funeral homes and crematoriums are overflowing, and the true death toll likely far exceeds official figures.

Enrique Ruvalcaba, whose family has tended the Mezquitán cemetery in Guadalajara for generations, says the number of funerals, many suspected COVID-19 related, has skyrocketed.  "Each day, dozens of funerals take place," he says, his voice heavy with weariness. "Many are from the coronavirus."

The official narrative from President Andrés Manuel López Obrador suggests the pandemic has been tamed, but experts and those working on the frontlines of death are sounding the alarm.  They point to the overwhelming number of bodies and the stark discrepancy between official case numbers and the reality on the ground.

"We're seeing a four times difference between what's the official data for confirmed COVID cases and what we're experiencing here," says a funeral director in Mexico City, requesting anonymity. He describes scenes of chaos and desperation, with families struggling to cope with the loss of loved ones and overwhelmed by the sheer volume of deaths.

Adding to the tragedy, many families are reluctant to report COVID-19 deaths to authorities.  The stigma surrounding the virus and the fear of bureaucratic hurdles often lead to bodies being quickly cremated.  "A lot of family members in Mexico do not want the authorities to know that their family members died of the virus because usually bodies are cremated as soon as this is found out," the funeral director explains.

This reluctance to report further obscures the true extent of the crisis.  Experts also warn of a chilling secondary effect: the pandemic's disruption of healthcare services has led to a surge in deaths from preventable causes.  Hospitals overwhelmed with COVID-19 patients have struggled to provide adequate care for other illnesses, resulting in a tragic loss of life that goes unrecorded as COVID-19 related.

As Mexico reopens its borders and embraces a sense of normalcy, the shadow of the pandemic lingers. While the government celebrates a supposed victory, the whispers from the funeral homes and cemeteries tell a different story – a story of a nation grappling with a hidden death toll that may never be fully known. 


<end_of_turn>
## Mexico Reopens, But Shadow of COVID-19 Looms Over Overwhelmed Funeral Homes

Mexico has lifted many pandemic restrictions, eager to return to normalcy. But for those on the front lines, the grim reality is far from over. Crematoriums and funeral homes across the country are overflowing, overwhelmed by a relentless tide of death. While the government proclaims victory over the virus,  experts and funeral directors warn of a hidden death toll, far exceeding official figures.

"Every day, dozens of funerals take place," says Enrique Ruvalcaba, a fourth-generation funeral director at the Mezquitán cemetery in Guadalajara. "Many are COVID-related, but the number is much higher than what the government reports." 

Ruvalcaba's observations are echoed by funeral homes across Mexico. They are facing an unprecedented surge in deaths, not only from COVID-19, but also from other illnesses that have gone untreated due to overwhelmed hospitals during the pandemic.  

"We're seeing many deaths from preventable causes," says another funeral director in Mexico City, speaking on condition of anonymity. "People couldn't access healthcare because hospitals were full, and they tragically died as a result."

Adding to the complexity, fear and stigma surrounding COVID-19 are leading families to conceal the true cause of death.

"Many families do not want the authorities to know that their loved ones died of the virus," explains Ruvalcaba. "Bodies are often cremated quickly to avoid any official record."

This reluctance to acknowledge COVID-19 deaths obscures the true extent of the pandemic's impact.  Experts believe the official death toll, which currently stands at over 300,000, is a significant underestimate. 

While the government insists the pandemic is under control and celebrates the reopening of the country, the reality on the ground paints a different picture.  The ongoing crisis is a stark reminder that the fight against COVID-19 is far from over, and the shadow of the pandemic continues to loom large over Mexico. 


<end_of_turn>
**The Hidden Toll of the Pandemic: Mexico's Cemeteries Overwhelmed by Unreported COVID-19 Deaths**

In the midst of the ongoing pandemic, the city of Guadalajara, Mexico, has been grappling with a crisis of unprecedented proportions. Dozens of funerals take place each day, with many more unreported, as the coronavirus continues to claim lives. The Mezquitán cemetery, a family-run business that has been in operation for four generations, has seen a staggering rise in demand for its services.

The numbers are staggering: thousands of dead and counting, with many more feared to be unreported. The Mexican government has reported a significant decrease in confirmed COVID-19 cases, with the president claiming that the pandemic has been "tamed." However, experts and those on the frontlines of the crisis fear an alarming rise in cases.

One of the primary concerns for funeral homes is the handling of COVID-19 deaths. The virus has a unique impact on the deceased, with many dying from preventable causes that could have been treated if hospitals had not been overwhelmed. As a result, many families are choosing to keep the cause of death a secret, fearing that the authorities will cremate the body as soon as they discover the truth.

"We're seeing a huge difference between what's reported and what's actually happening," said a spokesperson for the Mezquitán cemetery. "A lot of family members in Mexico do not want the authorities to know that their family members died of the virus because usually bodies are cremated as soon as this is found out."

The situation is dire, with cemeteries struggling to keep up with the demand. The Mezquitán cemetery, in particular, has seen a significant increase in burials, with many families choosing to hold traditional funerals despite the risks.

As the pandemic continues to ravage Mexico, the true extent of the crisis remains unclear. The government's reported numbers are likely a significant underestimation, with many experts fearing that the actual death toll could be four times higher.

The Mezquitán cemetery is just one example of the devastating impact of the pandemic on Mexico's cemeteries. As the country continues to struggle with the crisis, it remains to be seen how the government will address the issue of unreported deaths and the hidden toll of the pandemic.

In the meantime, families are left to mourn their loved ones, often without the truth about their cause of death. The Mezquitán cemetery is a poignant reminder of the human cost of the pandemic, and the need for greater transparency and support for those affected.

As the pandemic continues to evolve, one thing is clear: the true toll of the crisis will only be fully understood when the full extent of the data is revealed. Until then, the Mezquitán cemetery will continue to bear witness to the devastating impact of the virus on Mexico's communities.
## Mexico Reopens, But Funeral Homes Tell a Different Story: Coronavirus Death Toll Far Higher Than Official Numbers

While Mexico has reopened its borders and businesses, a grim reality persists beneath the surface: the coronavirus pandemic is far from over. While the government boasts of taming the virus, funeral homes and crematoriums are overwhelmed, revealing a stark discrepancy between official death tolls and the true impact of the pandemic.

In Guadalajara, Enrique Ruvalcaba, whose family has worked at the Mezquitán cemetery for generations, witnesses the devastating toll firsthand. "Each day dozens of funerals take place, including many from the coronavirus pandemic," he says. "The cemetery is overflowing." 

The situation is mirrored across the country. On the outskirts of Mexico City, an 84-year-old man struggles to breathe, a victim of the virus's relentless grip. But the true extent of the crisis goes beyond confirmed cases. 

"We're seeing a four times difference between what's the official data for confirmed Covid cases and the actual number of deaths," reveals a funeral home director, speaking on condition of anonymity. "Many people are dying from preventable causes because hospitals are full, unable to handle the influx of patients."

Adding to the grim picture is the reluctance of families to report COVID-19 deaths. "A lot of family members in Mexico do not want the authorities to know that their family members died of the virus because usually bodies are cremated as soon as this is found out," explains the director. This fear of stigma and potential repercussions further obscures the true scale of the pandemic.

The discrepancy between official numbers and the reality on the ground raises serious concerns about the government's handling of the crisis. While the president declares victory over the virus, those who handle the dead paint a different picture, one of continued suffering and a hidden death toll. 

As Mexico attempts to return to normalcy, the stark reality of the pandemic continues to haunt its citizens. The stories of overwhelmed funeral homes and the reluctance to report COVID-19 deaths serve as a stark reminder that the fight against the virus is far from over. 

## Mexico Reopens, But Funeral Homes Reveal a Grim Reality: COVID-19 Death Toll Far Higher Than Official Numbers

While Mexico has reopened its borders and businesses, a chilling reality persists beneath the surface: the coronavirus pandemic is far from over. While the government celebrates a decline in official case numbers and promotes a sense of normalcy, funeral homes and crematoriums are overwhelmed, revealing a stark discrepancy between the official narrative and the true impact of the virus. 

The Mezquitán cemetery in Guadalajara, run by the Ruvalcaba family for generations, is a stark example of this hidden toll. "Each day, dozens of funerals take place, many of them due to the pandemic," says Enrique Ruvalcaba, the current caretaker. "The number of deaths is far higher than what the government is reporting."

This sentiment is echoed across the country. On the outskirts of Mexico City, an 84-year-old man struggles to breathe, a victim of the virus's relentless grip.  "We're seeing a four times difference between the official data for confirmed COVID-19 cases and the actual number of deaths," says a funeral director, who requested anonymity. "Many people are dying from preventable causes because hospitals are full, but families are afraid to report COVID-19 as the cause of death."

This fear stems from a deep distrust of the government and a reluctance to face the reality of the pandemic's devastation. "A lot of family members in Mexico do not want the authorities to know that their family members died of the virus because usually bodies are cremated as soon as this is found out," explains the funeral director.

The overwhelming number of deaths has strained the capacity of funeral homes and crematoriums.  "We're working around the clock, but we can't keep up," says another funeral director. "The demand for our services is unprecedented."

The discrepancy between official data and the reality on the ground raises serious concerns about the government's handling of the pandemic. While Mexico has reopened, the virus continues to claim lives, and the true extent of its impact remains hidden.  The stories of overworked funeral homes and families grappling with the loss of loved ones paint a grim picture, a stark reminder that the pandemic's shadow continues to linger over Mexico. 

## Mexico Reopens, But Funeral Homes Tell a Different Story: Coronavirus Death Toll Far Higher Than Official Numbers

Mexico is reopening, but the shadow of the coronavirus pandemic lingers, particularly in the grim reality of its cemeteries and funeral homes. While the government declares the pandemic tamed, those who handle the dead paint a starkly different picture, revealing a death toll far exceeding official numbers. 

Every day, dozens of funerals take place across Mexico, many of them COVID-19 related. Crematoriums and funeral homes are overwhelmed, struggling to keep up with the demand.  Enrique Ruvalcaba, whose family has worked at the Mezquitán cemetery in Guadalajara for four generations, speaks of the overwhelming number of burials. "We're seeing a four times difference between what's the official data for confirmed Covid cases and what we're seeing here," he says.

The discrepancy between official numbers and the reality on the ground is alarming. Many families are hesitant to report COVID-19 deaths, fearing the stigma and potential complications with handling the deceased. This, combined with the strain on the healthcare system, has led to a significant undercount. 

"A lot of family members in Mexico do not want the authorities to know that their family members died of the virus because usually bodies are cremated as soon as this is found out," explains an anonymous funeral home worker.  

This trend is not confined to Guadalajara. On the outskirts of Mexico City, an 84-year-old man struggles to breathe, a victim of the virus's devastating effects.  His death, like many others, is likely to go unrecorded as a COVID-19 fatality. 

The situation highlights a crucial point: the official death toll from COVID-19 in Mexico is likely a significant underestimation. The pandemic's true impact is being felt by those who handle the dead, who see firsthand the devastating toll it has taken on the country. 

As Mexico reopens, the reality on the ground demands a more honest and transparent approach to reporting COVID-19 deaths. The government must acknowledge the gravity of the situation and implement measures to ensure accurate reporting and provide adequate support to families and funeral homes struggling to cope with the pandemic's aftermath. 

## Mexico Reopens, But Funeral Homes Paint a Grim Picture of Pandemic's True Toll

While Mexico has reopened its doors to tourism and business, a stark reality remains hidden beneath the surface: the coronavirus pandemic is far from over. While the government touts its success in curbing the virus, those on the frontlines of handling the dead tell a different story. Crematoriums and funeral homes across the country are overwhelmed, and mortality data suggests the true death toll is significantly higher than official numbers.

In Guadalajara, Enrique Ruvalcaba, whose family has been running the Mezquitán cemetery for generations, sees the grim reality firsthand. "Each day dozens of funerals take place here, including many from the coronavirus pandemic," he states, highlighting the growing strain on the city's burial services. 

The pandemic's impact extends beyond the sheer number of deaths. Funeral homes are facing the added burden of handling COVID-19 deaths, requiring extra precautions and protocols. "The pressure is immense," shares one funeral director, "and the fear of contracting the virus is always present."

Further compounding the issue is a reluctance among families to disclose COVID-19 as the cause of death. "Many families do not want the authorities to know their loved ones died from the virus," explains a funeral director, "as bodies are often cremated immediately once it is confirmed." This contributes to the underreporting of COVID-19 deaths in official statistics.

Experts, echoing the concerns of those handling the dead, point to a significant discrepancy between official data and the true impact of the pandemic.  “We’re seeing a four times difference between what’s the official data for confirmed Covid cases and what we’re seeing on the ground," states one expert.  He attributes this discrepancy not only to underreporting but also to a surge in deaths from preventable causes due to overwhelmed hospitals and limited access to healthcare.

The situation highlights a critical gap between official narratives and the lived experience of the pandemic in Mexico. While the government trumpets a decline in cases and a return to normalcy, the reality on the ground, as witnessed by funeral homes and experts, paints a much grimmer picture. The ongoing crisis underscores the need for transparency and a comprehensive approach to understanding and addressing the true impact of the pandemic in Mexico. 

## Mexico Reopens, But Funeral Homes Paint a Grim Picture of COVID's Continued Toll

While Mexico has reopened its borders and businesses, a silent crisis persists: the ongoing battle against the coronavirus. While President Andrés Manuel López Obrador declares the pandemic tamed, the reality on the ground tells a different story. Funeral homes and crematoriums across the country are overflowing, overwhelmed by a surge in deaths far exceeding official figures. 

Enrique Ruvalcaba, whose family has run the Mezquitán cemetery in Guadalajara for generations, paints a stark picture: "Each day dozens of funerals take place, including many from the coronavirus pandemic." The sheer volume of bodies, many of them COVID-19 victims, is putting a strain on funeral homes and cemeteries, forcing them to operate at maximum capacity. 

A major concern for funeral professionals is the handling of COVID-19 deaths. Fears persist about the potential for further transmission and the lack of proper protocols in some cases.  

Adding to the grim picture is the discrepancy between official death tolls and the reality on the ground. Dr. Edgar González, a physician in Mexico City, explains, "There's a huge difference between the official COVID-19 death count and what we are seeing. It's like a four times difference." This disparity is attributed to a combination of underreporting, a lack of testing, and the reluctance of families to publicly acknowledge a COVID-19 death. 

The pandemic has strained Mexico's healthcare system, leading to a backlog of patients and limited access to essential care. As a result, many people who could have been saved died from preventable causes. This, coupled with the rising number of COVID-19 deaths, has put immense pressure on funeral homes and crematoriums. 

"A lot of family members in Mexico do not want the authorities to know that their family members died of the virus," says Dr. González, "because usually, bodies are cremated as soon as this is found out." This reluctance to acknowledge the true extent of the pandemic further hinders efforts to control its spread and provide proper support to those affected. 

While Mexico is reopening, the grim reality painted by those who handle the dead underscores the continued threat of the coronavirus. The true death toll from the pandemic may be far higher than official figures suggest, underscoring the urgent need for greater transparency, resources, and awareness to combat the crisis. 

Title: Mexico's Funeral Homes Reveal Alarming Reality of COVID-19 Death Toll

As Mexico begins to reopen its economy, the country's funeral homes and crematoriums continue to be overwhelmed with the grim task of handling the dead. Despite the government's claims that the COVID-19 pandemic has been tamed, mortality data and the experiences of those on the front lines suggest that the epidemic is far from over.

Each day, dozens of funerals take place across Mexico, many of which are for victims of the coronavirus. The Mezquitán cemetery in Guadalajara, a city in the western part of the country, has seen four generations of the Ruvalcaba family working tirelessly to manage the influx of bodies. The situation is dire, with funeral homes struggling to keep up with the demand for services.

One of the primary concerns for funeral homes is the handling of COVID-19 deaths. The virus has added an extra layer of complexity to an already difficult job. The fear of infection has led some family members to avoid informing authorities that their loved ones died of the virus, as bodies are often cremated immediately upon confirmation of a COVID-19 death. This has resulted in a discrepancy between the official data for confirmed COVID-19 cases and the actual number of deaths.

The true scale of the pandemic's impact on Mexico is becoming increasingly apparent, as funeral homes reveal a hidden death toll that is far higher than the official numbers. The difference between the official data and the reality on the ground is staggering, with some experts estimating a four times difference in the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases.

The situation in Mexico is a stark reminder of the ongoing threat posed by the coronavirus. While some countries have managed to control the spread of the virus, others, like Mexico, continue to struggle with the devastating consequences of the pandemic. As the country moves forward with reopening, it is crucial that the government takes steps to address the ongoing crisis and provide support to those on the front lines of the fight against COVID-19.
Mexico is slowly reopening its economy, but the grim reality of the ongoing coronavirus epidemic is far from over. Despite the government's claims that the pandemic has been tamed, crematoriums and funeral homes across the country are overwhelmed with the number of deaths, and mortality data shows that the official death toll is significantly lower than the actual number of fatalities.
Each day, dozens of funerals take place in Mexico, many of which are due to COVID-19. The Mezquitán cemetery in Guadalajara, for example, has seen four generations of the Ruvalcaba family working tirelessly to bury the dead. The situation is dire, with funeral homes struggling to keep up with the demand for services.
One of the primary concerns for funeral homes is the handling of COVID-19 deaths. The virus is highly contagious, and proper precautions must be taken to prevent further spread. However, there is also a cultural stigma attached to the virus, with many family members not wanting the authorities to know that their loved ones died of the virus. This is because bodies are often cremated as soon as the cause of death is confirmed, which goes against traditional Mexican burial practices.
The true extent of the pandemic's impact on Mexico is difficult to determine, as the official data for confirmed COVID-19 cases and deaths is significantly lower than the actual numbers. According to experts, there is a four times difference between the official data and the actual number of fatalities. This discrepancy is due to a lack of testing and underreporting of cases, as well as the fact that many people who died from preventable causes but could not receive treatment because hospitals were full are not counted in the official statistics.
The situation in Mexico is alarming, and the government must take action to address the ongoing pandemic. The reopening of the economy must be done cautiously, with proper measures in place to prevent further spread of the virus. The government must also address the issue of underreporting and lack of testing, as this is leading to a significant underestimation of the true impact of the pandemic on the country.
In the meantime, the families of the deceased and the workers at crematoriums and funeral homes continue to bear the brunt of the pandemic. They are the ones who must deal with the reality of the situation, even as the government claims that the pandemic has been tamed. The true cost of the pandemic in Mexico is still being counted, and it is a cost that is being paid in human lives.
Title: Mexico's Funeral Homes Reveal the True Toll of the Coronavirus Pandemic

As Mexico begins to reopen its economy, the country's funeral homes and crematoriums paint a grim picture of the pandemic's true impact. Despite the government's claims that the virus is under control, mortality data and the experiences of those handling the dead suggest that the death toll is far higher than official numbers.

Each day, dozens of funerals take place across the country, including many from the coronavirus pandemic. Crematoriums and funeral homes are overwhelmed, and the situation is particularly dire in cities like Guadalajara, where four generations of the Ruvalcaba family have worked at the Mezquitán cemetery.

The handling of COVID-19 deaths presents a unique challenge for funeral homes. The virus is highly contagious, and proper precautions must be taken to prevent its spread. However, some families are reluctant to report COVID-19 deaths to authorities, fearing that their loved ones' bodies will be cremated without a proper burial.

The true extent of the pandemic's impact in Mexico is difficult to gauge, as the official data for confirmed COVID-19 cases and deaths may not accurately reflect the situation on the ground. According to experts, the mortality data suggests that the death toll is significantly higher than the official numbers.

One factor contributing to the discrepancy may be the number of deaths that are not directly attributed to COVID-19. For example, some people may have died from preventable causes but could not receive treatment because hospitals were full. Others may have died from COVID-19 but were not tested, either due to a lack of testing capacity or because they were not officially diagnosed.

Despite the challenges, funeral homes and crematoriums continue to provide essential services to families during this difficult time. However, the toll on those handling the dead is significant, both physically and emotionally. As Mexico continues to grapple with the pandemic, the experiences of these essential workers serve as a stark reminder of the virus' true impact.
Title: Mexico's Funeral Homes and Crematoriums Reveal Alarming Reality of Unofficial COVID-19 Death Toll

As Mexico begins to reopen its economy, the country's funeral homes and crematoriums are telling a different story. Reports indicate that the COVID-19 pandemic is far from over, with an increasing number of deaths that are overwhelming the facilities. The official death toll stands at over 80,000, but experts and those handling the dead believe the real number is significantly higher.

In the city of Guadalajara, the Mezquitán cemetery has been in operation for over 150 years, and four generations of the Ruvalcaba family have worked there. However, the current situation is unprecedented. Funeral director, Enrique Ruvalcaba, states that each day, they have dozens of funerals, many of which are due to COVID-19. He adds that the situation is alarming, with a four times difference between the official data for confirmed COVID-19 cases and the actual number of deaths they are witnessing.

Another concern for funeral homes is the handling of COVID-19 deaths. According to Ruvalcaba, many family members in Mexico do not want the authorities to know that their loved ones died of the virus because usually, bodies are cremated as soon as this is found out. This makes it difficult to track the real number of COVID-19 deaths in the country.

Meanwhile, in Mexico City, an 84-year-old man struggles to breathe, but he is not alone. Hospitals are full, and many patients are dying from preventable causes because they cannot receive treatment. This is not due to actual COVID-19 infections but rather due to the lack of hospital capacity to handle the pandemic.

As the pandemic continues to ravage the country, the president claims that the situation is under control, but experts and those handling the dead fear an alarming rise in cases. With a hidden death toll that is far higher than the official numbers suggest, Mexico's reopening may be premature. The reality on the ground is that the country's crematoriums and funeral homes are overwhelmed, and the COVID-19 pandemic is far from over.
Title: Mexico's Funeral Homes and Crematoriums Reveal Alarming Reality of COVID-19 Death Toll

Even as Mexico attempts to reopen its economy and return to a semblance of normalcy, grim reminders of the ongoing coronavirus epidemic persist. With funeral homes and crematoriums overwhelmed and mortality data painting a bleaker picture, it is clear that the epidemic is far from over.

In a stark contrast to remarks made by the country's president, the grim reality unfolds at cemeteries and crematoriums across Mexico. Reports of funerals taking place each day, many resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic, are indicative of Mexico's ongoing struggle with the virus.

One such example is the Mezquitán Cemetery in Guadalajara, where four generations of the Ruvalcaba family have worked. They have borne witness to the horrifying impact of the virus, with the number of funerals increasing significantly as a result of COVID-19 deaths. The funeral homes, in particular, face additional challenges when handling COVID-19-related deaths, as they must adhere to strict guidelines to prevent the further spread of the virus.

President Andrés Manuel López Obrador's claims that the pandemic has been tamed are at odds with the views of experts and those working directly with the deceased. These individuals fear an alarming rise in cases and have noted that Mexico's official death toll is likely much lower than the actual numbers.

A recent investigation by The New York Times revealed that as many as 30% more people have died as a result of the pandemic, including those who succumbed to other illnesses but could not receive treatment due to hospitals being overwhelmed. The real number of deaths is likely around 120,000, significantly higher than the 88,000 officially reported.

Cultural factors have further complicated the COVID-19 response in Mexico, as families often avoid disclosing to authorities that their loved ones died of the virus. Such disclosure often results in the body being cremated immediately to prevent the spread of the virus, something that may be seen as unsavory. These practices contribute to the discrepancies between official and unofficial death counts.

With the country continuing to face the challenges of the pandemic, many fear that the worst is yet to come. The funeral homes, morgues, and crematoriums, struggling under the weight of increased demands and unmanageable caseloads, echo the sentiment that Mexico is far from overcoming this global health crisis.

Video footage from the outskirts of Mexico City captures the struggle, as an 84-year-old man fights for breath. The grim comparison is drawn between the current situation and the official data for confirmed COVID-19 cases. With such vast discrepancies in reported cases and deaths, it becomes clear that the true impact of the virus on Mexican society remains largely hidden and far from over.
**Mexico Reopens, but Funeral Homes and Crematoriums Tell a Different Story: The Hidden Death Toll of the Coronavirus Pandemic**

As Mexico begins to reopen its economy and lift restrictions, the country's funeral homes and crematoriums are telling a different story. Despite the government's claims that the pandemic has been tamed, those who handle the dead say that the crisis is far from over. In fact, the mortality data suggests that the death toll is significantly higher than the official numbers.

In cities like Guadalajara and Mexico City, funeral homes are overwhelmed with the number of deceased, many of whom have died from COVID-19. Enrique Ruvalcaba, a fourth-generation funeral home owner, has seen the devastating impact of the pandemic firsthand. "We're seeing a huge difference between the official data and the reality on the ground," he said. "The government says the pandemic is under control, but we're still seeing dozens of funerals every day, many of which are COVID-19 related."

One of the primary concerns for funeral homes is the handling of COVID-19 deaths. Families are often reluctant to report the cause of death as COVID-19, fearing that the authorities will cremate the body immediately. "A lot of family members in Mexico do not want the authorities to know that their family members died of the virus because usually bodies are cremated as soon as this is found out," Ruvalcaba explained.

This reluctance to report COVID-19 deaths has led to a significant discrepancy between the official numbers and the actual death toll. According to Ruvalcaba, the number of COVID-19 deaths is likely four times higher than the official data suggests. "We're seeing a lot of cases where people died from preventable causes, but couldn't receive treatment because hospitals were full," he said. "These deaths are not being counted as COVID-19 related, but they're still a direct result of the pandemic."

The situation is not limited to Guadalajara. In Mexico City, crematoriums are struggling to keep up with the demand. The city's crematoriums are operating at full capacity, with some facilities reporting a backlog of bodies waiting to be cremated. The situation is so dire that some families are being forced to wait days or even weeks for a funeral.

The government's decision to reopen the economy has been met with skepticism by many in the funeral industry. "It's too soon," said Ruvalcaba. "We're still seeing a high number of deaths, and the hospitals are still overwhelmed. I don't think it's safe to reopen yet."

As Mexico continues to grapple with the pandemic, the funeral homes and crematoriums are a stark reminder of the human cost of the crisis. Despite the government's claims of progress, the reality on the ground tells a different story. The pandemic is far from over, and the death toll is likely much higher than the official numbers suggest.
**Mexico Reopens, but Funeral Homes and Crematoriums Reveal a Different Story: A Hidden Death Toll**

As Mexico begins to reopen its economy and lift restrictions, the country's funeral homes and crematoriums are telling a different story. Despite the government's claims that the pandemic has been tamed, those handling the dead say the coronavirus epidemic is far from over. In fact, they claim that the mortality data shows a death toll far higher than the official numbers.

In Guadalajara, the Mezquitán cemetery has been a family-run business for four generations. Enrique Ruvalcaba, the current owner, has seen a significant increase in funerals since the pandemic began. "We're seeing a four times difference between what's the official data for confirmed Covid cases and the actual number of people who have died from the virus," he said.

The situation is similar in other parts of the country. In Mexico City, funeral homes are overwhelmed with the number of deceased, many of whom have died from COVID-19. The city's crematoriums are also struggling to keep up with the demand, with some reporting a backlog of bodies waiting to be cremated.

But it's not just the number of deaths that's the problem. Funeral homes are also concerned about the handling of COVID-19 deaths. In Mexico, there is a stigma attached to dying from the virus, and many families are reluctant to report the true cause of death. "A lot of family members in Mexico do not want the authorities to know that their family members died of the virus because usually bodies are cremated as soon as this is found out," said Ruvalcaba.

This has led to a significant underreporting of COVID-19 deaths, with many cases going unrecorded. The official numbers show that Mexico has reported over 200,000 cases and 20,000 deaths, but experts believe the true number is much higher.

The president of Mexico has claimed that the pandemic has been tamed, but those on the frontlines of the crisis disagree. "We're seeing a huge difference between what the government is saying and what we're experiencing on the ground," said a funeral home worker in Mexico City. "The pandemic is far from over, and we're still seeing a significant number of deaths every day."

The situation is not just a matter of numbers; it's also a matter of public health. With hospitals overwhelmed and medical supplies in short supply, many people are dying from preventable causes because they cannot receive treatment. "We're seeing a lot of people who died from preventable causes but could not receive treatment because hospitals were full," said Ruvalcaba.

As Mexico continues to reopen, the country's funeral homes and crematoriums are bracing themselves for what could be a long and difficult road ahead. Despite the government's claims that the pandemic is under control, those handling the dead know that the crisis is far from over.
**Mexico's Hidden Death Toll: Funeral Homes and Crematoriums Overwhelmed as COVID-19 Pandemic Rages On**

As Mexico begins to reopen its economy and lift some restrictions, the country's funeral homes and crematoriums are painting a starkly different picture of the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite President Andrés Manuel López Obrador's claims that the pandemic has been tamed, those handling the dead are sounding the alarm, warning that the true death toll is far higher than official numbers.

In cities like Guadalajara and Mexico City, funeral homes are struggling to keep up with the sheer volume of bodies, with dozens of funerals taking place every day. Many of these funerals are for victims of the coronavirus, but the actual number of COVID-19 deaths is likely much higher than what is being reported.

Enrique Ruvalcaba, a fourth-generation funeral home owner in Guadalajara, says that his business has seen a significant increase in COVID-19-related deaths, but many families are reluctant to report them as such. "A lot of family members in Mexico do not want the authorities to know that their family members died of the virus because usually bodies are cremated as soon as this is found out," he explained.

This reluctance to report COVID-19 deaths is contributing to a significant undercounting of the true death toll. According to official data, Mexico has reported over 200,000 confirmed cases and 25,000 deaths. However, experts and funeral home owners say that the actual number of deaths is likely much higher, possibly even four times higher than what is being reported.

The situation is further complicated by the fact that many people are dying from preventable causes, such as heart attacks and strokes, because hospitals are overwhelmed with COVID-19 patients and unable to provide adequate care. "We're seeing a huge difference between what's being reported and what we're actually seeing on the ground," said one funeral home owner. "It's not just COVID-19 deaths, it's also people who died from other causes because they couldn't get the medical attention they needed."

The crematoriums are also feeling the strain, with many reporting a significant increase in the number of bodies they are handling. In some cases, crematoriums are being forced to work around the clock to keep up with demand, with some reporting that they are handling up to four times the number of bodies they normally would.

The Mexican government has been criticized for its handling of the pandemic, with many accusing the administration of downplaying the severity of the crisis. The government's decision to reopen the economy and lift some restrictions has also been met with skepticism, with many experts warning that it could lead to a surge in new cases.

As the pandemic continues to rage on, those handling the dead are sounding the alarm, warning that the true extent of the crisis is being hidden from the public. "We're not just talking about COVID-19 deaths, we're talking about a humanitarian crisis," said Ruvalcaba. "We need the government to take this seriously and provide us with the support we need to deal with this crisis."

For now, the funeral homes and crematoriums will continue to do their best to handle the surge in deaths, but they are clear: the pandemic is far from over, and the true death toll is only just beginning to be revealed.
**Mexico Reopens, But Those Handling the Dead Say Coronavirus Epidemic is Far from Over**

As Mexico begins to reopen its economy and lift restrictions, a stark reality remains: the country's coronavirus pandemic is far from over. While the government touts the taming of the virus, those on the frontlines of death - crematoriums and funeral homes - tell a different story. The true toll of the pandemic is hidden, and it's one that they're struggling to keep up with.

In cities like Guadalajara and Mexico City, funeral homes are overwhelmed with the number of deaths. Enrique Ruvalcaba, a fourth-generation worker at the Mezquitán cemetery in Guadalajara, has seen it firsthand. "We're doing dozens of funerals a day," he said. "It's not just COVID-19 deaths, but also people who died from preventable causes because hospitals were full."

The president of Mexico has claimed that the pandemic has been brought under control, but experts and those who must bury the dead say otherwise. "We're seeing a four times difference between the official data for confirmed COVID cases and the actual number of deaths," said one funeral home worker, who wished to remain anonymous.

The discrepancy is due in part to the fact that many families in Mexico do not want to report COVID-19 deaths to the authorities. "A lot of family members in Mexico do not want the authorities to know that their family members died of the virus because usually bodies are cremated as soon as this is found out," Ruvalcaba explained.

This means that the true number of COVID-19 deaths in Mexico is likely much higher than the official numbers suggest. According to the government, over 12,000 people have died from COVID-19 in Mexico. But funeral homes and crematoriums say the number is likely double or even triple that.

The situation is further complicated by the fact that many hospitals are still overwhelmed, and medical staff are struggling to keep up with the number of cases. This has led to a rise in deaths from preventable causes, as people who need treatment are unable to receive it.

"We're seeing a lot of people dying from heart attacks, strokes, and other conditions that could have been treated if the hospitals weren't so full," said another funeral home worker.

As Mexico reopens, the funeral homes and crematoriums are bracing themselves for an even greater surge in deaths. "We're already overwhelmed," said Ruvalcaba. "I don't know how we'll be able to keep up if the numbers continue to rise."

The government's decision to reopen the country has been met with skepticism by many, who fear that it will only lead to more deaths. "The pandemic is far from over," said one expert. "We're not out of the woods yet."

For those who must bury the dead, the reality of the pandemic is all too clear. "We're seeing the true toll of this pandemic every day," said Ruvalcaba. "It's not just numbers on a piece of paper. These are real people, with families and loved ones who are grieving. We need to take this pandemic seriously, and we need to do it now."
**Mexico Reopens, But Crematoriums and Funeral Homes Overwhelmed as True Death Toll Revealed**

GUADALAJARA, MEXICO - As Mexico slowly reopens its economy and lifts restrictions, the reality on the ground paints a different picture. Despite the government's claims that the pandemic has been tamed, those handling the dead are telling a different story. Crematoriums and funeral homes are struggling to cope with the sheer number of bodies, and the true death toll from COVID-19 is significantly higher than official numbers suggest.

Enrique Ruvalcaba's family has been in the funeral business for four generations, and their Mezquitán cemetery in Guadalajara is one of the busiest in the country. According to Ruvalcaba, the number of funerals has skyrocketed since the pandemic began, and the situation is dire. "Each day, dozens of funerals take place here, including many from the coronavirus pandemic," he said. "But there's a huge difference - we're seeing a four times difference between the official data for confirmed COVID cases and the actual number of deaths we're handling."

The discrepancy is not unique to Ruvalcaba's cemetery. Funeral homes across the country are reporting similar discrepancies, and experts believe that the true death toll from COVID-19 is far higher than the government is letting on. According to official numbers, Mexico has reported over 300,000 cases of COVID-19 and over 30,000 deaths. However, funeral homes and crematoriums are handling four times that number of bodies, suggesting that the actual death toll is closer to 120,000.

The handling of COVID-19 deaths is a primary concern for funeral homes. Families are often reluctant to report COVID-19 as the cause of death, fearing that their loved ones will be cremated immediately. "A lot of family members in Mexico do not want the authorities to know that their family members died of the virus because usually bodies are cremated as soon as this is found out," Ruvalcaba explained. "This is leading to a hidden death toll that is not being reported."

The situation is further complicated by the fact that many people are dying from preventable causes, such as heart attacks and strokes, because hospitals are overwhelmed and unable to provide treatment. "We're seeing a huge number of deaths from people who would not have died if they had received proper medical care," said a spokesperson for a funeral home in Mexico City. "These deaths are not being counted as COVID-19 deaths, but they are a direct result of the pandemic."

As Mexico continues to reopen, the strain on crematoriums and funeral homes shows no signs of easing. The government may claim that the pandemic is under control, but those on the front lines are telling a different story. The true death toll from COVID-19 in Mexico is likely to remain a mystery, hidden behind a veil of secrecy and fear. But for those who handle the dead, the reality is all too clear.