COVID-19 (Coronavirus) issues
A rapidly changing scenario - please feel free to contact us with updates or questions.
See the Ministry of Health website for updates: here
CORONER REFERRALS - COVID DEATHS
Deaths "that are known to be or suspected most likely to be from Covid-19" (Coronavirus) do NOT automatically have to be referred to the Coroner,
- unless there are other related concerns that would normally warrant a discussion or referral
- See statement from Chief Coroner issued 24 March 2020.
“ Doctors and nurse practitioners are encouraged to issue a cause of death certificate in these cases…"
FUNERAL DIRECTORS - HANDLING THE BODY
A person who has died of Covid-19 could still be potentially infectious via physical contact
- virus-laden droplets may remain on and around the body and clothing after death. The body must be handled as though it is infectious.
The Ministry of Health has specific guidelines for Funeral Directors.
Temporary exemptions for Cremation regarding the requirement to examine the deceased after death: now expired.
The exemption was re-introduced via a separate notice on 19 December 2022.