Bishops take action to reduce spread of influenza

With Influenza A and Swine Flu having been identified in New Zealand, the bishops reinforce the need for priests and other ministers working for the Church to practise good personal hygiene procedures and request that all ministers take the following precautionary measures to reduce the spread of influenza.

The following actions are to cease: Communion on the tongue; Communion from the chalice; shaking hands at the Sign of Peace.

The bishops emphasise that ceasing these actions is a precautionary measure only and hope that they will not have to take stronger action. An update will be issued by the bishops if stronger action is needed and advice will be given when these actions can be resumed.