The novel coronavirus pneumonia claimed their lives, but they are still helping to fight the epidemic.

On Wednesday, pathological teams from various Chinese universities completed anatomical studies on 11 bodies donated after the virus claimed their lives.

The importance of such studies should not be underestimated. X-ray, MRI and CT machines help see inside a human body, but they don't provide the advantages of seeing and examining an infected body. Such studies are possible only if people pledge to donate their bodies while they are alive.

Such donations bolstered the fight against severe acute respiratory syndrome in 2003 when there were doubts if a virus or chlamydia had triggered the epidemic. Anatomical analysis of a dead SARS patient's body pointed to a virus, helping doctors decide on the course of treatment.

Similar post-mortem examinations have helped this time too. Liu Liang, a professor heading one of the anatomy teams, said they found fluids inside the lungs of several cadavers.

The contribution of those who pledge to donate their bodies after death is immense, even more so if a disease claimed their lives. Even though they suffered because of the disease, their bodies will help fight it after death. In the present case, such bodies have become like soldiers protecting people from the virus.

China respects such people. The country's body donation system ensures donors' bodies get due respect and are used most efficiently. Medical staff are known to bow to show respect to the deceased who have donated their bodies for research.

It is hoped that by fighting the virus even after death they can help bring an end to the epidemic soon.