Death, Burials and Funerals

Abstract

Covid-19 has radically upended death and dying. Restrictive measures aimed at containing the spread of infections have resulted in a simplification or abandonment of many social and cultural practices related to burials, funerals and mourning. This article aims to examine how the pandemic has affected burials, funeral practices and mourning. It analyses the extent to which the restrictions balance the need to protect public health and the opportunity for mourners to honour the deceased. A consideration of the implications for surviving families and the wider community is important for future pandemic preparations.
 Keywords: pandemic; death; burial; funeral; grief; mourning.