What Happens When Someone Dies During The COVID-19 Pandemic

I think what happens to those who die of COVID-19 is already well-documented in Malaysia. But it’s different for those who pass away during the MCO period from causes that are not related to COVID-19.

Morbid stuff. But it’s good info to know.

My grandma passed away on Monday. She was almost 100 years old. For a few months, she’d been poorly. It was just her time to go. She was alone in the hospital when she passed, which absolutely breaks my heart. Family members weren’t allowed in due to MCO regulations. We understand, of course. But it’s still sad. It still sucks. You know?

While previously families could pick up the bodies for burial, things are complicated now because of the stupid coronavirus 🙁

An autopsy has to be done to test for COVID-19

If the COVID-19 test is positive, the body will be sent straight for burial without family members involved. That means no family members allowed to attend the burial at all.

If the COVID-19 test is negative, the family can take the body for funeral rites and burial.

In our case the autopsy was scheduled for the next day. It still hasn’t been performed yet after many hours of waiting.

Funerals during MCO

From office of Menteri Pertahanan:

1. Only twenty (20) people are allowed at the taman perkuburan.
2. Face mask is compulsory.
3. Social distancing is compulsory.
4. Selangor government is very strict on these rulings.

That’s about it

COVID-19 test results were supposed to be released at 2pm. It’s now 6pm and the hospital hasn’t done the autopsy yet. It’s ok. 🙁