COVID-19 deaths and final rights
Safety and Government Regulations –
The Center for Disease Control (CDC) states that decedents with COVID-19 may be buried or cremated according to the family's preference.
To date there is no evidence of persons having become infected from exposure to the bodies of persons who died from COVID-19
Infection Prevention and Control for dead body management in the context of COVID-19: Interim guidance; World Health Organization; 24 March, 2020
Safety and Government Regulations –
The Center for Disease Control (CDC) states that decedents with COVID-19 may be buried or cremated according to the family's preference.
To date there is no evidence of persons having become infected from exposure to the bodies of persons who died from COVID-19
- It is a common myth that persons who have died of a communicable disease should be cremated, but this is not true. Cremation is a matter of cultural choice and available resources. Burials should take place in a timely manner, in accordance with local practices.
- Funeral ceremonies not involving the burial should be postponed, as much as possible, until the end of the epidemic.
- If a ceremony is held, the number of participants should be limited. Participants should observe physical distancing at all times and follow respiratory etiquette and hand hygiene
- It is believed that this virus dies quickly when the host dies; however, to prevent any droplets from being expired by the lungs when moving, it is recommended that hasty disposal of the body should be avoided
- In cases where a body has to be removed immediately, a mask should be placed on the decedent
- The dignity of the dead, their cultural and religious traditions, and their families should be respected and protected throughout
- Embalming is not recommended to avoid excessive manipulation of the body
- Family or healthcare workers preparing the body should wear masks and gloves and practice standard precautions at all times, including hand washing
- Adults >60 years and immunosuppressed persons should not directly interact with the body
- Family and friends may view the body after it has been prepared for burial, in accordance with customs. They should not touch or kiss the body and should wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after the viewing
- Those tasked with placing the body in the grave should wear gloves and wash hands with soap and water after removal of the gloves once the burial is complete
Infection Prevention and Control for dead body management in the context of COVID-19: Interim guidance; World Health Organization; 24 March, 2020