Holy Cow! Watch out for the Holy water

Swine Flu Fears Lead to Holy Water Ban

Some Roman Catholic churches in Tokyo, Japan are reported to have emptied holy water basins due to fears that worshippers may spread ‘swine flu’ (influenza virus H1N1) when dipping their fingers into the water. Virus particles from the hands of one person could potentially be spread to the hands of others who subsequently use the same water. Infection could result if the second person then touches the mucous membrane of their nose, mouth or eyes before washing their hands. According to a report from Reuters News Agency, priests have also been asked to wipe their hands with disinfectant towels before distributing communion wafers.