Bishops lift flu-prevention restrictions at Masses in NZ

WELLINGTON Restrictions on actions at Masses aimed at preventing the spread of Influenza A (H1N1) can be lifted from Saturday, September 12, New Zealands Catholic bishops have decided. That means Communion on the tongue and from the chalice and contact during the Sign of Peace can resume from that date.
A message announcing this was sent to priests and parish workers on September 9 by New Zealand Catholic Bishops Conference president Bishop Denis Browne of Hamilton.
It said information from the Health Ministry and the Institute of Environmental Science and Research shows the influenza situation in New Zealand has almost returned to normal for this time of year.
The bishops have suggested that communicants with health concerns should not receive Communion from the chalice.
They have also asked that attention continue to be paid to hygiene regarding the sacred vessels and the distribution of Communion.
The bishops say they are thankful for the support they have received over the last few months in helping to restrict the spread of the spread of the H1N1 virus in parishes and the wider community.
The bishops issued the restrictions at Mass after the new virus was first detected in April. The restrictions were dropped in May after Health Ministry advice.
But the bishops requested they be applied again in June after further medical advice.