The World Health Organization has raised its warning level for the swine flu outbreak to pandemic level five, only one level below that of a full pandemic.

The outbreak, which is centered in Mexico, had already prompted Bishop Kevin Farrell of Dallas to issue recommendations for reception of Communion and Mass attendance in response to the health threat.

In a public letter, Bishop Farrell requested that his diocesan pastors “give mindful consideration to the following items:

a. Remind all of our people at Mass to be attentive to the indications of our public-health officials with respect to the transmission of this flu; and

b. Consider suspending in your parish the reception of the holy Eucharist under both species for an appropriate period of time;

c. Ensure that all Eucharistic Ministers use proper hygiene before the distribution of the Eucharist at Masses.”

The Office of Liturgy of the Diocese of Dallas has also issued a statement containing the following “reminders and recommendations”:

Sunday Obligation

: The obligation to attend Mass on Sunday and other holy days of obligation (Canon 1247) is the ordinary expectation of Catholics. Obviously, extraordinary circumstances such as sickness, travel or bad weather excuse the faithful from this obligation. If you are not feeling well, especially during this time of concern, please stay at home and do not risk spreading infection to others. Please stay at home and do not attend Mass.

Sign of Peace

: Members of our congregations should not be offended at this time if someone chooses not to shake the other person’s hand at the sign of peace. If you are ill, the appropriate response to someone extending a sign of peace might be to bow to them and say, “Peace be with you” to avoid bodily contact, or one might wave slightly at the other person.

Reception of holy Communion

: It is the teaching of the Church that the fullness of the body and blood of Christ are contained in the holy Eucharist, under the form of the host that is distributed at the Mass. The Church has extended the privilege to receive at Communion the blood of Christ in the form of wine. We highly encourage the following practices during this time. If you are feeling sick, please receive Communion in the hand and refrain from receiving Communion under the form of the blood of Christ.

Persons With Compromised Immune Systems

: Persons who have been directed by their medical advisors that they are particularly susceptible to infection may choose to refrain from any practices by which they might become sick, including shaking hands, receiving holy Communion on the tongue, drinking from the Precious Blood, etc.