This article from the United Kingdom’s Independent deals with what may be realities during the widespread exposure of the coronavirus.  A direct quote: “Ministers have warned a widespread outbreak of cononavirus in the UK could lead to an increase in deaths among the vulnerable and elderly, as officials were instructed t0 find extra mortuary spaces.”

Prime Minister Boris Johnson says in the article that “it was highly likely the UK will see a growing number of cases of coronavirus.”  He also said the government strategy was based on four phases – containing the virus, delaying its spread, researching its origins and cure, and mitigating the impact should the virus become more widespread.

A plan put together by the government indicates that should the outbreak become more widespread, in addition to more mortuary space, “some non-urgent care may be delayed to prioritize and triage service delivery.  Staff rostering changes may be necessary including calling leavers and retirees back to work.”

Funeral Director Daily take:  While a licensed funeral director, I am not a public health expert so it is difficult for me to even hypothesize on what will happen with this virus.  I’ve taken to look at this site every day which I believe gives a non-discriminatory fact based look at what is happening with known infections, deaths, and recoveries from what is now know as COVID-19.

I think back to the time that I was on a committee that was formed to put a plan into place in case the H1N1 virus mutated and was able to spread from birds to humans.  That was back in 2008 or 2009 and what is encouraging to me today is the plans that were put in place for widespread outbreaks with a high probability of death.  And, at the end of the day, a plan was put into place that would mitigate the issues as much as possible.

What gives me much hope is that while there is an outbreak at this time of COVID-19, America has the best health system in the world and it is ten years into the future from when I sat on a task force.  Secondly, while no one wants to be sick, I am encouraged by the high recovery rate and relatively low death rate of COVID-19 as presented at this time.

For what it is worth. . .my advice is to stay vigilante, continue or even expand your positive hygiene habits, stay tuned to the public health experts, and continue to move forward with your life.   For funeral professionals here is information from the National Association of Funeral Directors website on the subject.

Editor’s Note:  Since I wrote this column last week for publication this week, an article somewhat critical of Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s plans was published in the British paper, The Guardian.  Without any comment, I give you that article here should you want to see that side of the issue.

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