Consultant Judicial Medical Officer (Specialist in Forensic Medicine) Dr. Channa Perera says the period to determine if an individual succumbed to COVID-19 has been reduced.
Dr. Perera said if an individual succumbs within seven days after testing positive for the virus the body will be handled as that of a COVID-19 victim.
Speaking at a media briefing today, Dr. Perera said if the individual succumbs on the eighth day the cause will not be determined as COVID-19 and the family will be able to perform final rites.
Dr. Channa Perera added according to the latest circular final rites can be conducted based on the wishes of the relatives of COVID-19 victims adding the location at which the burial or cremation will take place can also be decided by the relatives.
He noted the final rites must be conducted within 24 hours after the body is released from the hospital while the body can only be taken from the hospital to the location at which the final rites will be conducted.
Dr. Perera added the body will be released from the hospital in a body bag in a sealed coffin provided by relatives.
He reiterated the coffin cannot be opened or taken to the relative’s houses or a funeral parlour.
Dr. Channa Perera stated 10 close relatives will be provided the opportunity to pay their last respects to the deceased, before the coffin is sealed.
He added other relatives can pay their last respects at the location where the final rites will be conducted adding however the coffin cannot be opened.
