Local Catholic reaction to the swine flu

The so-called "swine flu" has made its way to Colorado, and Catholic organizations are getting the word out on how to handle the situation. Most of the advice is common sense, and the diocesan official response could alter some Mass practices.

On Thursday, Colorado Springs Bishop Michael Sheridan issued a memorandum to all priests, deacons and liturgy coordinators on procedures they should follow.

Michelle Maher, superintendent for the Unified Catholic Schools of the Pikes Peak Region, sent a Q&A to schools regarding what the swine flu is, how to detect it and the risks involved.

Penrose-St. Francis Health Systems issued recommendations for those visiting area facilities:

If you have a fever, cough, runny nose or sore throat, you are a risk to others. Please do not visit if you have these symptoms.

Wash your hands frequently.

Recommend that children under the age of 12 not visit at this time.

We strongly recommend individuals with a chronic illness not visit at this time.

Denver Archbishop Charles Chaput also released a statement on Wednesday regarding the swine flu.

Most immediately, as a general precaution, parishioners should be encouraged to remain home at the first sign of illness out of respect for their brothers and sisters. Parishioners should be reminded of the importance of basic health measures, e.g., hand washing as an effective means of preventing the transmission of infectious material, (nasal secretions, saliva, etc.) from soiled hands. Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion should wash their hands before Mass begins and avoid touching their mouth, nose and eyes during Mass.

The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) has a Q&A from the Divine Worship Committee published on its site.