Potential Implications of Pandemic Influenza for Faith Communities

Psychological impact on members may be significant.
Public health containment measures may dramatically change operations and practices.
School closures.
Cancellation of public gatherings may include worship services.
Maintaining safe distances between people may not be feasible in most places of worship.
High absenteeism at worship services.
Possible economic losses.
End of Life Care may be compromised.
Recommendation to avoid contact with ill persons may prevent praying for, or visiting, the sick.

How Faith Communities Can Help

Educate members and staff about pandemic influenza through flyers, newsletters, web broadcasts and meetings.
Speak candidly with members about how pandemic influenza might impact religious practices and operations.
Encourage persons in the communities you serve to comply with public health directives.
Promote good health habits among your Faith community to minimize spread of diseases.
Post respiratory and hand hygiene signage.
Expand the number of soap and sanitizer stations throughout your place of worship.
Encourage individual and family preparedness.
Identify members with special needs or without family and other support systems and assist with their preparedness plan.
Consider focusing your organization’s efforts on providing services that are most needed in your community (e.g. mental health, social services).
Coordinate with external organizations and share your response plan.

—Adapted from Gloria Addo-Ayensu, M.D., M.P.H., Director of Health, Fairfax County Health Department, State of Virginia

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Last updated on Friday, April 22, 2011.

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