The Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) reported that the new epidemic prevention and control scheme, under which mild cases will be exempt from isolation in the post-pandemic era, will be implemented starting today as the pandemic situation has been stable. After taking into consideration international recommendations on the handling of deceased bodies and assessing practical needs of such handling in the country, the CECC has decided to revise its recommendations on infection and control for the handling of bodies of deceased COVID-19 patients to be in line with the new scheme. Additionally, the Ministry of Health and Welfare will modify the eligibility criteria provided under the Directions for Funeral Assistance and Condolence Grants to only apply to those who passed away before the effective date of the new scheme. The adjustments to the CECC’s recommendations on infection and control for the handling of bodies of deceased COVID-19 patients are as follows:

(1) The body no longer has to be cremated right after being placed and sealed in a coffin in the hospital or first call vehicle. The body can be cremated, buried, or handled in other manners without being required to be cremated.

(2) The recommendation that the body bag cannot be opened after the body has been placed inside has been removed. Friends and family can now view the body provided the principles of infection control can be followed. Medical/surgery masks are recommended and touching the body should be avoided.

(3) The recommendation that double bagging should be used for body bags" has been removed and changed to "if there is a risk of body fluid leakage, body bags that can be fully sealed and are not permeable should be used".

(4) Staff (including healthcare workers, mortuary staff, and funeral service staff) are advised to choose appropriate personal protective equipment according to the risk of exposure when performing their duties.