The paragraph below from the Diocese of Davenport was read at all Masses this past weekend:

You have heard of the COVID-19 virus in the news.  Most people (80%) who become ill have mild flu symptoms.  We need to do what we can to protect the people who are at greater risk.  It’s important not to panic on the one hand, or be complacent on the other.

The Iowa Department of Public Health offers the following guidance:

Use every day safeguards to reduce the risk of all viruses, including COVID-19:

o Wash your hands frequently.

o Stay home if you are ill.

o Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue.

In addition to these every day prevention measures:

• Discontinuing handshakes or hugs. Greet each other verbally and/or in another manner, such as a bow.
• Clergy and communion distributors should wash their hands before administering communion. If soap and water is not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Communicants should be encouraged to use their own hand sanitizers before communion.
• Distribution from the chalice is discouraged.

• Receiving communion on the tongue is highly discouraged.

• Remember to frequently wash your hands. If you are sick, please stay home.