Calls to Reintroduce Ban on Handshaking and Kissing in Church

Churches in Dominica are being advised to return the ban on handshaking and kissing during the time of peace.

The Roman Catholic Church recently lifted a ban on hugging and kissing as a sign of piece during the mass.

But with the recent confirmation of another swine flu case and an outbreak in flu-like symptoms on the island, the Ministry of Health has asked that the ban be implemented again.

Chief Medical officer Dr David Johnson said “we are asking-not only the Catholic Church-but all of the churches to put out the messages to avoid kissing, touching and hugging during the time of worship. One of the measures that curtail the spread of the disease is social distancing,” he said.

Johnson is also commending the church for what he said was a job well done. “The church cooperated well with the Ministry of Health in terms of trying to mitigate the spread of the decease. The Bishop did advise against hugging, kissing and handshaking. We believe that it’s because of the decision by the church that the flu was contained”, he said.

Meantime President of the Dominica Association of Evangelical Churches Bishop Michael Daniel said he is willing to abide by the request of Ministry of Health until officials see it fit to lift the ban.