Church takes steps to prevent spread of Mpox

ARUSHA: THE Catholic Church of the Archdiocese of Arusha has suspended the practice of worshippers shaking hands during the Holy Mass as a symbol of wishing each other peace in an effort to prevent the spread of monkey fever, known as Mpox.

Meanwhile, the Tanzania Episcopal Conference (TEC) stated that it will issue a statement to inform its followers about the disease once an official statement is received from the Health Ministry, similar to the actions taken during the Covid-19 outbreak.

In a recent statement to Priests, Religious and the laity, Archbishop Isaac Amani of the Catholic Archdiocese of Arusha directed them to take precautions due to the presence of mpox in neighbouring countries.

Bishop Amani emphasised the importance of taking precautions due to the interaction of people travelling for various activities, urging everyone to protect themselves from the disease during Mass and in other settings.

“I urge you to take precautions, avoid shaking hands, including refraining from shaking hands to wish peace during Mass and outside of it, and avoid hugging,” said Bishop Amani.

He also urged priests, religious and the laity to use hand sanitisers, soap and running water, ensuring that these supplies are readily available in all church areas for regular hand-washing.

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“Mpox has been declared a global pandemic by the World Health Organisation (WHO). The virus is transmitted through sweat, saliva and bodily fluids, so remember that prevention is more cost-effective than treatment,” he emphasised.

He expressed confidence that these precautions will be followed with self-awareness, responsibility and cooperation in Christ through actions.

TEC Secretary General, Rev Fr Dr Charles Kitima, informed the ‘Daily News’ that they are awaiting an official statement from the Ministry of Health to guide their response to the situation.

“Once we receive directives, it is our responsibility to implement them, as we are not health professionals. Therefore, we are seeking instructions from the Ministry of Health on the appropriate measures to take,” said Rev Dr Kitima.