Letter to editor

Dear Editor:

COVID 19:  Is there any guidance for funerals? Yes, there is a starting point in the guidance given by the CDC. You can find a paragraph dedicated to some questions on the CDC website, https://nfda.org/covid-19. As far as the activities leading up to the funeral service are concerned the family of the decedent will need to use the cautionary guidelines that we have been hearing for many days now. Very small gatherings, social distancing, personal cleansing and sanitary behaviors will keep your exposure at a minimum. Healthcare workers have protocols in place for their safety as well.

Funeral service professionals should already be practicing the universal precautions to protect themselves and the public from exposure and risk. Obviously there is another layer of risk when handling a decedent with a known communicable disease. Precautions should be taken accordingly. This is where the new questions become apparent. What about a funeral service? Can I view my loved one again? Is there a risk exposure when a loved one is viewed at a visitation or a funeral? Can we gather for a funeral? Is cremation a necessity or at least a better option?

As is true with any funeral, every situation is different depending on the family’s needs, expectations, faith and traditions. Never the less, I think we can offer some general questions and provide some rules of thumb. First, I can tell you that a properly embalmed and sanitized decedent can be viewed by the family. Viewing at the funeral home is recommended and in groups of 10 or less at a time. Viewing at a graveside service prior to burial is another option. So, yes, if it is your choice there can be a viewing. This is important for many individuals to provide closure. Yes, cremation can be a safe option. The cremated remains present no biological hazard. They can be handled, mailed via the USPS system according to their procedures, scattered, buried or kept in your possession in an urn or keepsake container.

The most difficult questions concern the gatherings for condolence and funeral rites. Again, every situation presents different needs and even challenges, but here are some simple straight-forward guidelines. A typical visitation would not be advised, nor should a funeral home or church allow it during the times of heightened risk and social distancing. Cards, letters, phone calls, texts, facebook and the funeral home website that allows condolences on line are the best ways to express your condolences. Bringing food to the family and personal visits are certainly discouraged.

What about a funeral service?  Here are some safe options to consider. Have a graveside service where social distancing can be observed. No receiving line should be formed to personally greet the family of course. You could go ahead with a disposition whether burial or cremation and schedule a memorial service at a later date at the funeral home, your church or another venue.

I know that this may not answer every question or adequately address every situation, but it is a starting point for consideration. You and your funeral director can explore other options based on your needs at the time.

CK Warden, Lamar