The municipality of Kavala, northern Greece, is preparing to exhume approximately 150 graves of individuals who died from Covid-19, after authorities found that the expected decomposition had not occurred even five years after burial.
According to local reports, the delay is attributed to health safety measures used during the pandemic. Bodies were placed in protective plastic bags to prevent the potential spread of the virus, which inadvertently slowed natural decomposition.
The municipal council has approved a two-step process involving both the exhumation of the bodies and the removal of the plastic coverings from their coffins. Following this, the remains will be reburied for at least one more year to allow the natural decomposition process to take place.
A council briefing noted: “During the exhumation of Covid-19 cases five years after death, it was found that the bodies were completely preserved. This is because, according to current legislation, they were placed in plastic bags to prevent virus transmission.”
The plan aims to ensure that the graves eventually undergo normal decomposition while maintaining respect and public health standards. Authorities emphasized that the process will be carefully managed in accordance with all hygiene regulations.
