The emergence of cases of COVID-19 (the “coronavirus”) in Europe, and recent deaths in northern Italy associated with the virus, should be a matter of concern to all of our communities.
There are basic steps each of our communities can follow to minimize risks to all of our people and the ministries to which they contribute or by which they are served.
First, the best advice on precautions to take is provided on the website of the World Health Organization. Information is available in English, French, and Spanish.
To summarize the WHO suggestions:
• Wash your hands frequently, using soap and water or an alcohol-based rub. All eu- charistic ministers should use an alcohol-based rub before the distribution of the sacrament, whether in the context of the liturgy or in visiting someone at home or in the hospital.
• Practice respiratory hygiene. Cover your mouth when sneezing or coughing; dis- card tissues immediately in closed bins.
• Practice social distancing. In general, maintain a distance of a meter between you and others, particular those who are coughing, sneezing, or evidently ill.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
• Any parishes involved in ministries in which food is served should give particular attention to The WHO recommendations regarding food safety.
• Needless to say, we should send a clear message that if anyone feels ill or unwell, they should, as a general rule, seek medical care immediately and not attend parish events.
• Related to this, if someone who is elderly or lives alone does not appear at church in what would otherwise be a regular function, create systems for wellness checks.
Caring for each other and for all the people of God means being careful in the midst of an epidemic. With a reasonable amount of caution we can keep our people, our communities, and those we serve healthy—and continue to minister to those who are ill and in need of our care.