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Handshakes, Wine Returning To Mass In Wake Of Flu

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Feb 5, 2010 8:44 am US/Eastern

Handshakes, Wine Returning To Mass In Wake Of Flu

BOSTON (WBZ) ―

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The Boston Archdiocese is ready to ease restrictions at mass that were put in place for flu season.

Since October, parishioners have been asked not to shake hands and wine has not been offered to reduce the chance of H1N1 and seasonal flu spreading.

In a statement on its web site, the Archdiocese announced it would "urge the return" of both practices throughout the Archdiocese "by Palm Sunday, March 28."

While there is concern about a possible third wave of the viruses, the church says a drop in "flu activity" and the wide availability of vaccines prompted the change.

Sick parishioners who may be contagious are still encouraged to stay home.