Archdiocese of Santa Fe urging no touching amid flu outbreak

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — The Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Santa Fe has announced a series of temporary changes at Mass amid widespread flu outbreaks and high Influenza-like illnesses in New Mexico.
The archdiocese said Monday that it is encouraging parishioners to nod and avoid shaking hands or hugging during the Sign of Peace.
In addition, church officials are asking parishioners not to hold hands when praying the Our Father.
Church officials also are asking those who are sick, sneezing or coughing to watch Sunday Mass at home on TV.
New Mexico is one of the states listed by the U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention as having widespread flu outbreaks and high Influenza-like illness activity.