Occupational infection risks and infection prevention gaps in autopsy and mortuary practice: a narrative review and public health recommendations
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.18203/2394-6040.ijcmph20261814Keywords:
Autopsy, Mortuary, Infection prevention and control, Occupational exposure, Biosafety, Personal protective equipment, Sharps injuriesAbstract
Autopsy and mortuary services represent a frequently overlooked occupational setting with potential for exposure to blood-borne pathogens and airborne infections. In many institutions, undiagnosed infections, incomplete clinical histories, inconsistent screening, and resource limitations can contribute to “silent” transmission risks for mortuary and autopsy personnel. This narrative review highlights key infection control gaps across mortuary workflow, staff practices, personal protective equipment use, waste handling, and environmental disinfection. Evidence and guidance relevant to infection prevention and control (IPC) are summarized with emphasis on low-resource and high-workload settings. Public health relevance includes protection of healthcare and support staff, strengthening of occupational surveillance, and reducing preventable exposure events. Practical recommendations include standard precautions, risk-based PPE, safe handling of sharp instruments, improved triage and communication of infection status, staff training and vaccination (where applicable), and strengthening institutional policies and audits. Addressing infection control in mortuary and autopsy practice is essential for workforce safety and overall health system preparedness.
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