What must an undertaker do with the body of someone who dies of plague or smallpox?

• A. Place in coffin with immediate permanent closure
• B. Bury in unsealed bag
• C. Burn immediately
• D. Keep for study

Answer: (A)

Dealing with bodies from highly contagious diseases requires containment through a securely closed container. The undertaker must place the body in a coffin and seal the lid permanently so nothing can escape and so infection cannot spread to anyone handling the casket or the surrounding area. This practice protects staff, family members, and the public and aligns with health regulations that require a sealed, closed container for such cases.

Burying in an unsealed bag would risk exposure and violate containment rules; burning immediately isn’t the standard requirement and would cut off normal funeral rites; keeping the body for study would require special approvals and consent, which aren’t the typical duties of an undertaker.