Procedure for disposing of bodies of those who succumb to COVID-19 released

The Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for handling and disposing of bodies of those who die due to COVID-19 has been issued by the Judicial Medical Officer (JMO) of the District General Hospital, Polonnaruwa, according to which no mass funerals will be allowed and only cremation of bodies will be allowed.

The Medical Officers of Health (MOH) and Public Health Inspectors (PHIs) of each area have been asked to monitor the process and cremations will have to be completed within 24 hours.

Deaths of COVID-19 afflicted patients will usually occur at the Infectious Disease Hospital (IDH) or the hospitals especially identified to house these patients, the notice on SOP said.

The instructions say that no inquests or autopsies will be necessary while embalming of bodies is also strictly prohibited.