Given concern about this winter's flu outbreak, congregations are urged to exercise common sense and take the same reasonable precautions that are recommended during the regular flu season every year.
These include washing hands frequently with soap and water (and using sanitizing wipes and alcohol-based gels when soap and water is not available); good self-care (getting plenty of sleep and exercise, managing stress, eating healthy food and drinking plenty of water); avoiding close interactions with people who are sick; trying not to touch potentially contaminated surfaces; and avoiding touching nose, eyes and mouth.
At public worship, it is suggested that people consider verbal greetings in lieu of physical contact during exchange of The Peace and avoid self-intinction during Communion. Having hand washing and sanitizing supplies readily at hand in church facilities, and encouraging their use, is also a good idea.
Some online information resources include:
www.mass.gov/dph/flu
Center for Disease Control and Prevention
www.cdc.gov/flu