Bishops Statement

 Precautionary Measures to Reduce the Spread of Influenza A and "Swine flu"

The Catholic Bishops of New Zealand, with a view to taking precautionary measures to reduce the spread of influenza A and "swine flu" that has now been identified in New Zealand, have requested that with immediate effect, the following actions are to cease:

• Communion of the tongue
• Communion from the chalice
• The Sign of Peace

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