23371: Stockdale: Re: 23366: Esser: Re: 23328: Stockdale: Re: 23369:

[Bob Corbett <corbetre@webster.edu>]

From: Clayton Stockdale <cdstockdale@mchsi.com>



> "Contrary to popular belief, dead bodies pose no more risk of disease
> outbreak in the aftermath of a natural disaster than survivors,"

This would indicate that dead bodies DO present a risk of disease, as do
survivors.

Also see excerpt of statement below.  Those who have been to Haiti, OR to
a
flood site where there is still standing water, know that basic
precautions to
prevent spread of disease are very difficult if not impossible to maintain
in
those circumstances.

Also see excerpt of statement below.  Those who have been to Haiti, OR to
a
flood site where there is still standing water, know that basic
precautions to
prevent spread of disease are very difficult if not impossible to maintain
in
those circumstances.

Coroners and physicians in the United States wear personal protective
equipment
(gowns, gloves, face shields) when handling dead bodies as part of basic
precautions.

Deb Stockdale

"However, those who handle victims may be
> exposed to chronic hazards such as bloodborne viruses,
> gastrointestinal infections, and tuberculosis. The risk for this
> group can be estimated from the disease prevalence in the local
> population and the likelihood of exposure and transmission.

> Simple measures, such as handwashing and basic hygiene, can reduce
> the risk of such "occupational" exposures. Those who are likely to be
> given the task of managing the dead (police, civil defense, military)
> would benefit from basic instruction as part of disaster preparedness
> activities. Access to suitable equipment (gloves, body bags, etc.)
> should also be considered. Following a catastrophic disaster or an
> event in a remote region, people with no previous instruction may be
> called upon to assist. Basic messages about suitable precautions
> would support local authorities and agencies who may themselves be
> unsure of appropriate methods. Where possible, disposal of the dead
> should be done according to local custom and practice. Burial is the
> preferred option in the case of mass casualties and where victims
> cannot be identified. Burial is unlikely to cause contamination of
> groundwater if sited correctly."