Manejo de cadáveres en el contexto del nuevo coronavirus (COVID-19). Recomendaciones provisionales, 7 de abril de 2020 / Dead body management in the context of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19). Interim recommendations, 7 April 2020

RESUMEN

Proporcionar recomendaciones sobre la gestión de cadáveres en el contexto del nuevo coronavirus (COVID-19) en las instalaciones de atención de salud. Estas recomendaciones son preliminares y están sujetas a revisión a medida que se disponga de nuevas evidencias.* Consideraciones clave • En diciembre de 2019 se identificó un nuevo coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) como el agente causal de una enfermedad respiratoria aguda grave (COVID-19) en Wuhan, China. El virus se propagó a diferentes países y la Organización Mundial de la Salud (OMS) declaró una pandemia el 11 de marzo de 2020. • Hay todavía algunas incertidumbres en la historia natural de COVID-19, incluyendo fuentes, mecanismos de transmisibilidad, desprendimiento viral y persistencia del virus en el medio ambiente. Se ha documentado la transmisión de persona a persona, con un período de incubación de 2 a 14 días. • La transmisión de enfermedades infecciosas asociadas con el manejo de cadáveres puede ocurrir y puede ser amplificada por el incumplimiento de las precauciones estándar y basadas en mecanismos de transmisión, especialmente en entornos sanitarios.

ABSTRACT

To provide recommendations on the management of dead bodies in the context of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) in healthcare facilities. These recommendations are preliminary and subject to review as new evidence becomes available.* Key considerations • In December 2019 a novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) was identified as the causative agent of a severe acute respiratory illness (COVID-19) in Wuhan, China. The virus spread to different countries and WHO declare a pandemic on March 11, 2020. • There are still some uncertainties in the natural history of the COVID-19, including source(s), transmissibility mechanisms, viral shedding, and persistency of the virus in the environment. Human-to-human transmission has been documented, with incubation period from 2 to 14 days. • Transmission of infectious diseases associated with management of dead body can occur and can be exacerbated by non-compliance to standard and transmission-based precautions, especially in healthcare settings. Aerosol-generating procedures (AGP)† have a role in the spread of the disease , as well as contaminated hands of healthcare providers, surfaces and fomites. • Assess the risk during the mortuary care process and provide adequate explanation to the family, respecting the cultural context of the local community. If indicated, provide personal protective equipment (PPE) to the family, with instruction in its use.