translated from Spanish: Funeral homes must implement the use of gloves and masks before the Covid-19

Feinando Reinojo, worker at The San Diego Funeral Home in Copiapó, said that since they are taking all the precautions and implementing the new recommendations published by the health authority for the handling of corpses, which includes the use of alcohol, masks and surgical gloves.” When handling a deceased it must be done with a latex glove, the corresponding mask and if possible a mesh hair”, some he says were not mandatory before the pandemic. The protocol disseminated by the Government clarifies that “the corpse of a coVID-19 deceased does not mean a higher health risk than previously existed by the disease. The risk lies in the possibility of crowding of funeral-goers.” As for the ceremonies, the manual states that “the entire funeral process (both the speed, ceremony or burial) must last a maximum of 90 minutes” and must be carried out in places specifically for them, and only with the “attendance at the celebration is restricted exclusively to the direct core of the deceased with a maximum of 20 people”, who must guard a minimum distance of one meter from each other.” The assistance of people identified by the Seremi de Salud as close contacts for COVID-19 who must remain quarantined is restricted,” they emphasize. The authority insists that the holding of wakes in homes is “prohibited” and that “the burial must be carried out in a place defined as a cemetery according to the Health Code, General Cemetery Regulation”. Also, “it is recommended not to use decoration during ceremonies, in order to avoid the chain of contagion by contact. For example, candles, flowers, photos, etc.” They also remember that a safe conduct can be requested, through the “Virtual Police”, to attend the funeral of a direct family member. They last 5 hours, if they are in the same region, and 24 hours, in case the family member lives in another region. On the measures to be taken by the workers in the area, the following is established:- In case of direct contact with corpses and high risk of contagion, personal protection elements should be used. – Facilitate the conditions and implements necessary for frequent hand washing with soap and water. – Have alcohol gel solution permanently for the worker who does not have access to hand washing with soap and water frequently.- Perform frequent cleaning and disinfection of surfaces. – Maintain social distance of 1 meter between people. – Cover the mouth and nose with the forearm or disposable scarf when coughing and sneezing, do not reuse the latter. – Refrain from touching nose, mouth and eyes. – Avoid physical contact when greeting. – Carry out disinfection of the means of transport each time the transfer is made. – Maintain clean and ventilated environments.

Original source in Spanish