What are the latest measures that can be taken against coronavirus? The Ministry of Health has itself announced the newest precautions that can be taken globally against the coronavirus, which continues to affect the world. In its statement, the Ministry advised that, whenever possible, death determinations should be based on external examination rather than full autopsy, so decisions can be made quickly while minimizing invasive procedures.
The Ministry noted that the virus can be present in the lungs and other organs in deaths related to coronavirus and recommended that autopsies be performed, whenever feasible, in negative-pressure rooms. If a negative-pressure room is not available, autopsies should be carried out in a well-ventilated room only after all appropriate protective measures have been put in place. The infection control guidance prepared by the Ministry has been updated to reflect scientific developments in the course of the pandemic and to specify the precautions required during autopsies. The revised measures, presented in their most current form, are outlined below.
Which Items Were Revised for Autopsy Procedures in Coronavirus-Related Deaths?
Which items were revised for autopsy procedures in coronavirus-related deaths? For deaths attributed to coronavirus, it is recommended whenever possible to determine the cause of death by external examination and avoid performing autopsies. The updated protective measures adopted under this guidance are listed below.
- The minimum number of personnel necessary should participate in the autopsy.
- Personnel performing the autopsy must wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including a waterproof gown, N95 or FFP2 respirator, goggles, face shield, and double gloves.
- The exterior of the body bag should be disinfected with bleach solution.
- Instruments and materials used during the autopsy should be cleaned and then sterilized immediately after the procedure.
- Environmental surfaces in the autopsy area should first be cleaned with water and detergent. After cleaning, disinfect surfaces by applying a 1:10 dilution of bleach or 70% alcohol and leave in contact for at least one minute. Hospital surface disinfectants or chlorine tablets may be used according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Staff preparing and using disinfectant solutions must wear appropriate PPE, including respiratory and eye protection.
- Waste generated during the autopsy must be disposed of in accordance with medical waste management regulations.
These measures aim to reduce infection risk to staff and limit environmental contamination while ensuring that necessary postmortem examinations are conducted safely. Institutions should follow current national guidance and update local practices as scientific knowledge evolves.