Diocese of Salt Lake City implements precautionary measures because of coronavirus
Friday, Mar. 13, 2020
On March 9, Bishop Oscar A. Solis issued a memo on the coronavirus with the following information:
We received last Saturday an update from Governor Gary Herbert’s office and the Utah Department of Health in conjunction with Utah Task Force COVID-19 about the first positive case of coronavirus here in Utah. The case is travel-related, but the state government recognizes the concern of our communities about the spread of this virus and requested we provide best recommendations to protect the members of our communities. Here is some of the information that scientists have shared about why our personal actions are so important with this pandemic.
1. If you have a moderate or mild illness that seems like novel coronavirus (symptoms like a fever, cough or shortness of breath), call your clinician or public health department to ask about your symptoms. Always use telehealth first.
2. For information, you can also visit the website coronavirus.utah.gov or call the Utah COVID-19 information line, 1-800-456-7707. Most likely you will be told to stay home, self-isolate and recover as you would with a cold.
3. If you have more serious symptoms and think you have COVID-19, do not arrive at a doctor’s office, emergency room or urgent care facility without calling ahead. You could potentially infect everyone in the office. When you call, they will give thorough instructions on how to proceed.
4. If you are not sick, preparation is helpful. Ensure that you have extra food and medications in case you have to stay home for a couple of weeks. If possible, get a plan with your family and any groups that you lead in case we have school/work closures.
In view of the aforementioned, these mandates for all our parishes must be implemented immediately as additional cautionary measures.
a. Holy water fonts must be emptied to help avoid transmission of the virus.
b. Suspend the practices in Mass of offering the cup of the Precious Blood for Communion, as well as the shaking of hands during the Sign of Peace.
c. Ministers during Mass must undertake the sanitary practice of washing their hands before they exercise their roles. Pastors can make available soap or sanitizers and a clear reminder of the practice.
d. Reiterate the value of prudence and common sense. Announcements will be made to the congregation and parishioners:
i. Pray for God’s intervention and grace, for the sick infected by the virus, and for all health care workers. Include the intention in the General Intercessions.
ii. Avoid physical contacts if you are sick with a cold, sneezing, coughing and fever.
iii. Wash hands frequently; stay home when not feeling well so as to not infect others.
iv. Avoid public gatherings, events and socializing.
v. Those who are sick are dispensed of their obligation to attend Holy Mass on Sunday. Stay home for needed rest and to avoid transmitting the virus. You can pray at home and participate in the celebration of the Holy Mass through your television.
vi. Be conscious of the symptoms of the coronavirus: fever, cough and shortness of breath.
vii. Follow government advisory or instructions for guidance. Know whom to call and how to report your case in order to seek a doctor’s help.
viii. Tune in to the federal and state government websites for news updates and advisory notices.
ix. Be safe and prudent. Prepare yourself for any eventuality but do not panic. Seek immediate help when necessary.
If the state government declares an emergency and designates closure of schools, offices and other places of public gatherings, the Diocese of Salt Lake City has a plan in place to continue essential operations. This information was sent to all priests, deacons, religious, Catholic school principals and other personnel.
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