'Corpses may pass on AIDS'<\/p>\n
JAKARTA (JP): An anti-AIDS activist said hospital staff who
\ntouch the remains of people who have died from AIDS (Acquired
\nImmune Deficiency Syndrome) will not automatically contract the
\ndisease, but recommended extra care.<\/p>\n
Dr. Samsuridjal Jauzi said it was possible for corpses to pass
\non contagious diseases. Therefore, morgue workers and others who
\ndeal with dead bodies must use gloves, masks, coats and boots to
\nprotect themselves when they have to touch or wash corpses.<\/p>\n
He recommended workers sterilize their hands and equipment
\nafter washing a corpse and that those who have wounds on their
\npalms demonstrate extra care.<\/p>\n
Samsuridjal addressed a workshop on AIDS organized by the
\nYayasan Ilmu foundation in Tebet, South Jakarta, aimed at
\nlessening hospital staff's concern about dealing with AIDS
\npatient's remains.<\/p>\n
\"There is no reason to treat dead bodies differently.
\nEverybody just must take care to protect themselves from possible
\ninfection,\" he told the 40 people attending the workshop.<\/p>\n
Moslems are required to treat a corpse properly by, among
\nother things, washing and praying for it.<\/p>\n
Muardi Chatib, lecturer of the Jakarta Islamic Institute said
\nIslam permitted people to use gloves, masks, mantles and other
\ninstruments when washing corpses.<\/p>\n
The Ministry of Health's latest records indicate that of all
\nthe provinces, the capital has the highest incidence of AIDS with
\n118 sufferers. This is followed by the easternmost province of
\nIrian Jaya with 96 AIDS\/HIV patients compared with 33 cases in
\nBali.<\/p>\n
In an effort to increase public awareness of the threat of
\nHIV\/AIDS, the Pelita Ilmu foundation will hold an event at the
\nNational Monument (Monas) Square AIDS Day on Dec.3.<\/p>\n
The event will include a poster exhibition, music, and talks
\non AIDS. (29)<\/p>",
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"sponsor": "Okusi Associates",
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