Srinagar, April 13 (GNS): Doctors on Monday took samples for novel coronavirus of a deaf and dumb beggar whose body was recovered near Chest Disease Hospital, one among the health facilities presently used exclusively for the Covid-19 management.
Sources told GNS that samples were taken to see if the person might have contracted the dreaded disease. “The man was always encircled by dogs as he would feed them also. Since cases of coronavirus transmission to animals cannot be ruled out, the samples were taken to confirm if he has died of the virus and incase it turns to be so, the dogs in the area may be culled to prevent the spread of the disease,” they said. Meanwhile, the doctors also advised police to take all precautions while handling the body which is now kept in a mortuary at PCR Srinagar.
While the main driver of transmission of COVID-19 is through droplets, the guidelines underline that there is unlikely to be an increased risk of the infection from a dead body to health workers or family members. However, those handling the body are required to follow standard precautions (surgical mask, gloves).
Religious rituals such as reading from religious scripts and any other last rites that do not require touching of the body can be allowed but bathing, kissing, hugging, etc. of the body has been advised to be strictly avoided. The funeral or burial staff and family members are also required to perform hand hygiene after burial or cremation.
Meanwhile, police has sought information regarding the deaf and dumb whose body was recovered at Malteng Dalgate.
“He was begging in the area since last 15 years. Age about 40-45 years, Complexion – black (beard on face) & height 5 feet 5 inch. The dead body was sent for the autopsy to PCR and legal formalities have been initiated,” a police spokesman said, adding, “If anybody has any information regarding the identity of the dead body may kindly inform Police Station R.M.Bagh Srinagar on 9596770853 or PCR Srinagar on 9596222550, 9596222551, or Police Control Room Kashmir on ” Dial 100″.” (GNS)