Health Services Director General Dr. Asela Gunawardena yesterday issued a circular revising the guidelines on post-mortem PCR testing.

According to the circular, performing a PCR test is not mandatory for all deaths, whether they are hospital or non-hospital deaths. However, if a death requires a post-mortem examination, a PCR test can be conducted as per the discretion of the relevant Judicial Medical Officer.

If an individual dies of COVID-19, their remains must be disposed of according to the proper method of disposal previously adhered to.

“We now understand that there is no need to conduct a PCR test for all deaths that occur. There are several reasons for this,” Judicial Medical Officer Dr. Channa Perera said, explaining that the families of deceased persons face many difficulties due to the process.

• 1,217 persons test positive for COVID-19

• SL receives 100,000 RAT kits

• 42,917 persons vaccinated against COVID-19

• 25 COVID-19 fatalities confirmed