Considering the rapid growth of the number of infections with different types of influenza, the Romanian Patriarchate recommends that the hierarchs and the lay and monastic clergy, together with the faithful, pray during the holy services to God for health, protection and deliverance from disease, peace, tranquility and forgiveness of sins, according to the guidelines in the Liturgikon.

At the same time, in accordance with the Cooperation Protocol Concerning the Partnership for Medical and Spiritual Assistance, signed between the Romanian Patriarchate and the Ministry for Public Health in July 2008, the recommendations drafted by the healthcare professionals for the prevention of various types of influenza, transmitted by the Romanian Patriarchate to all Diocesan Centers, must be popularized by the priests of the Romanian Orthodox Church in order to protect and support the health of all citizens.

Also, the medical recommendations concerning the prevention of flu infections will be publicized through broadcasts and informative articles by the BASILICA Press Center of the Romanian Patriarchate (TRINITAS Radio, TRINITAS TV, the Lumina publications, the BASILICA News Agency and the Internet webpage www.patriarhia.ro).

THE PRESS OFFICE OF THE ROMANIAN PATRIARCHATE