SARS victims’ ashes free of virus

MABALACAT, Pampanga — The cremated remains of victims of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) are safe and could even be kept in urns in the homes of their families.

"Once incinerated, the ashes of a SARS victim are safe," said Dr. Eric Tayag, assistant director of the Department of Health (DOH) in Central Luzon.

Tayag, who used to be the chief epidemiologist of the San Lazaro Hospital, made the clarification to allay fears regarding the plan of relatives of the second Filipino woman who died of SARS in Hong Kong, to bring home her ashes.

The family of the SARS victim, who last visited her hometown here five years ago, has sought "privacy" and refused any media interview.

Dr. Oscar Aurelio, municipal health officer, said three of the victim’s children, who are also staying in Hong Kong, might bring home the ashes.

Aurelio said there should be no concern about this since Hong Kong health authorities would not allow the victim’s children to leave without any health clearances. Besides, quarantine authorities would check them upon arrival at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport.

As a normal procedure for those arriving from SARS-affected countries, Tayag said the three children would still be asked to quarantine themselves at home upon arrival.

He said health personnel from the municipality and the Jose B. Lingad regional hospital in the City of San Fernando would monitor their health condition.

"For as long as they do not manifest fever, they need not even wear masks. They could also go out even to malls if such trips are necessary, or to attend the burial (of their mother)," Tayag added.