As a means of preventing the spread of the deadly Influenza A (H1N1) Swine Flu virus, the Roman Catholic Church in the island nation of Dominica has taken the extreme step of banning handshakes among its worshipers. Dominica recorded its first case of the deadly flu virus just last week.

Bishop of Roseau Gabriel Malzaire has said that the church has adopted a number of measures (with immediate effect) in order to help lessen physical contact between members of the public. As a result he said, communion would now only be distributed “on the spices of the consecrated bread” and that “during the sign of peace, instead of shaking hands, kissing or embracing, you are encouraged to nod your head to the person to whom the sign of peace is given“.

The Church said it would also suspend other long-standing traditions such as drinking wine from the chalice, and giving communion on the tongue. It said it was also praying for those suffering from the Swine Flu virus.