There have been several questions regarding influenza season and any actions that need to be taken regarding the potential for spreading the disease at Mass. After consultation with the Vanderburgh County Health Department, we would like to share the following recommendations. Please share these with your people through your bulletins, social, media, etc.
What are the symptoms of influenza? Symptoms usually include:
- Fever
- Chills
- Headache
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Muscle aches
- Diarrhea and nausea occasionally in children
Symptoms usually start about 1-4 days after being exposed and can last 2-7 days.
Please do not come to church or public places if you have symptoms of the flu. If you are concerned about contracting the flu because of chronic illness, elderly or very young, please do not drink from the chalice or participate in the sign of peace to help prevent the spread of influenza.
At your parish, please continue to remember all of the sick in prayer. One suggestion would be to celebrate a Mass for the Sick (Roman Missal, Masses and Prayers for Various Needs and Occasions, III. For Various Occasions, 45. For the Sick) on an appropriate weekday. Thank you for your attention and concern in these matters.
For More Information:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention