Volume 13, Number 1—January 2007
Perspective
Epidemics after Natural Disasters
John T. Watson*
, Michelle Gayer*, and Maire A. Connolly*
, Michelle Gayer*, and Maire A. Connolly*Table
Principles for management of dead bodies*
| • Mass management of dead bodies is often based on the false belief that they represent an epidemic hazard if not buried or burned immediately. |
| • Burial is preferable to cremation in mass casualty situations. |
| • Every effort should be made to identify the bodies. Mass burial should be avoided if at all possible. |
| • Families should have the opportunity (and access to materials) to conduct culturally appropriate funerals and burials according to social custom. |
| • Where existing facilities such as graveyards or crematoria are inadequate, alternative locations or facilities should be provided. |
| • For workers routinely handling bodies, ensure |
| • Universal precautions for blood and body fluids |
| • Use and correct disposal of gloves |
| • Use of body bags if available |
| • Hand-washing with soap after handling bodies and before eating |
| • Disinfection of vehicles and equipment |
| • Bodies do not need disinfection before disposal (except in cases of cholera, shigellosis, or hemorrhagic fever) |
| • Bottom of any grave is >1.5 m above the water table, with a 0.7-m unsaturated zone |
*Adapted from Morgan (3).
