A Donegal priest has suspended offering mass-goers to make the sign of peace to each other by shaking hands because of the flu virus.
Ballyshannon priest Fr Cathal O Fearrai, Parish Priest of Kilbarron Parish said he was suspending the traditional shaking of hands at masses.
He said this suspension will continue until such time as the flu risk is reduced.
He added that it was a precautionary measure and not the first time it had been taken at masses.
He also said that he would not be surprised if other local priests in the Diocese of Raphoe would also introduce such measures.
The Diocese of Down and Connor has also advised priests to disinfect their hands before they distribute Holy Communion.
It says its precautions are based on medical advice.
The handshakes between worshippers, known as the “sign of peace”, is an established part of the Mass.
However, it is also one of the easiest ways the flu virus can spread from one person to another.
Now the diocese of Down and Connor has suspended the handshakes.
It has also said that in the short term wine will not be distributed as part of Holy Communion, because it is done from a shared chalice.
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