News | Sunday, 05 July 2009

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Swine Flu – Curia orders Holy Communion by hand only

Karl Stagno-Navarra
It was a clear case of when, and not if the feared Swine Flu reached the Maltese islands.
With 16 cases confirmed, many of whom contracted the virus in an aircraft on their way to Malta from Spain and the UK, Malta appears to be prepared to face the flu pandemic, with its health sector already organised and with a plan in action.
A British woman, 18, was confirmed as having the A H1N1 swine flu virus and has been admitted to Mater Dei Hospital for observation, although her case is not serious, a spokesman said.
In a statement, the Health Department appealed to all those suspecting Swine Flu not to go to hospital emergency departments or clinics, but to stay at home and call a doctor.
All those having symptoms of the virus may also phone on the help line 21324086.
A spokesman said a large number of people have gone to the Mater Dei Hospital Emergency Department asking to be tested for Swine Flu. The spokesman said this had disrupted the operations of the department and increased the potential of the spread of the virus, should any person be infected.
Furthermore, Swine Flu tests were not carried out at the Mater Dei emergency department.
In another development, the Curia issued a statement instructing all faithful that Holy Communion will be given by hand only. The decision is a response to the outbreak of Swine Flu in Malta. The decision follows similar actions in other dioceses where Swine Flu has broken out.
Two new cases of Swine Flu were confirmed in Malta yesterday but two cases listed as confirmed on Friday have been downgraded to ‘probable’, meaning that the number of cases remains 16.
The new cases reported yesterday are a British woman, aged 18, and a British man, aged 19, who traveled separately to Malta. They are being held in quarantine but do not need hospital treatment.
Government has embarked on a nationwide information campaign about the virus and how to protect oneself, while also giving advice on how to handle the situation.

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