Bishop Addresses H1N1 Concerns
Bishop Anthony B. Taylor released this statement Sept. 22, 2009.
There has been much reported and written about the H1N1 virus (Swine Flu). This virus is different from the seasonal flu experienced by thousands each year, but the generally accepted precautions are the same: hand washing, covering one’s mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing, staying home if one is sick. People should already be doing these things throughout the year.
I do not anticipate the need for large scale liturgical adaptations to practices such as the distribution of the Holy Eucharist under both species, the exchange of the Sign of Peace or the availability of holy water in the holy water font.
It is already our practice that those who feel ill should forego receiving the Precious Blood and fearful individuals are in any event not obligated to receive from the cup, shake hands or touch the holy water.
Any modifications in these recommendations if warranted by changing circumstances will be posted on this Web page. By taking the generally accepted precautions, we hope that the spread of both the H1N1 virus and seasonal flu will be minimal.
H1N1 Flu Resources
U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention