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The Center for Disease Control is closely monitoring an outbreak of respiratory illness caused by a new coronavirus. The outbreak first started in Wuhan, China, but cases have been identified in a growing number of other international locations, including the United States, where, as of February 26, there were 60 confirmed cases, 42 of which were from one cruise ship. Most of the other 15 were travelers returning from China.
The CDC now says the virus is "NOT currently spreading in the community in the United States," according to its website. But health officials say they expect it will at some point.
Taking sensible precautions makes sense.
Resources for congregations and individuals
Letter from Bishop Diane Jardin Bruce on precautions to take. Bishop Bruce, suffragan bishop of the Diocese of Los Angeles, writes, "As you may know, I recently returned from nearly two weeks in South Korea and Taiwan. Bishop Taylor asked me to share with colleagues and the whole diocese my experience of how churches close to the epicenter are handling the COVID-19 (coronavirus) outbreak. These are guidelines for us all to follow – at church, at home, and at work -- as concern grows about the possibility of further outbreaks in the United States." Her letter is in English and Spanish, and is posted with her permission.
CDC Print resources, including posters
Get Your Community and Faith-Based OrganizationsReady for Pandemic Flu. This is a booklet the CDC published in 2017 that has much helpful relevant information.
Hygiene Best Practices for Eucharist - from the Episcopal Diocese of New Jersey
Prayer for Preparedness and Response
O God, our times are in your hand. In the midst of uncertainty lead us by your never-failing grace as we seek to be agents of healing and hope. Walk with us through difficult times; watch over us in danger; and give to us a spirit of love and compassion for those who suffer and mourn. And finally remind us that you have promised never to leave us so that even in the valley of the shadow of death your love may be felt, through Jesus Christ our Lord. AMEN.
— The Rev. Lyndon Harris, from the Episcopal Diocese of New York disaster preparedness plan.
