In the continuing debate on the contribution of cadavers to disease in the
aftermath of a disaster, Michel Thieren and Robert Guitteau have written the
article "Identifying Cadavers Following Disasters: Why?" in the April 2000
(#80) issue of "Disasters: Preparedness and Mitigation in the Americas".
This issue will soon be available at
http://165.158.1.110/english/ped/pedtm3en.htm
As with the article by Dr Charles de Ville de Goyet from the July 1999 (#77)
issue of the same newsletter, Thieren and Guitteau's article states clearly
that it is a myth that cadavers are responsible for disease following a
disaster. Neither article, however, seems to provide much evidence, logical
argumentation, or many examples to support their claim. In the cases
mentioned, it is unclear whether or not disease-prevention measures
undertaken actually did prevent disease. Nonetheless, I am aware of only
scattered and anecdotal cases where serious outbreaks of disease did indeed
occur following a disaster, and it is rarely clear whether or not cadavers
contributed in any way.
The debate on these issues perhaps has need of stronger evidence, through
examples from the field and medical science theory and practice, before our
community starts promoting appropriate actions to take with respect to
disease and disasters.
Thank you for your time,
Ilan
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