Possible Hepatitis exposure from North Dakota bishop

[cleanhippie]

One does not associate church with Hepatitis A, most of the time church is the least expected place to contract the virus. Surprisingly, hundreds of people may have been exposed to Hepatitis A while taking communion. The exposure happened in late September and early October in North Dakota.

While Bishop John Folda served communion, he exposed hundreds of parishioners to Hepatitis A. Bishop John Folda served the communion at five different churches in Fargo, Grand Forks, and Jamestown. He acquired the virus in Italy while attending a conference. He did not have any knowledge of contracting the virus, he stated “I wish I had known I was ill so I could immediately refrain from participating in public activities.” North Dakota state Health Department issued an advisory of exposure for anyone who attended the services. Bishop Folda issued a statement saying “I sincerely apologize to the people who may have been exposed to the virus.”

Hepatits A can cause serious liver problems. Signs and symptoms include fatigue, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, dark urine, and yellowing of the skin or eyes. Vaccinations are available for Hepatitis A, though they are usually given to people who are at high risk of exposure. The Hepatitis A vaccine may be prevented if the vaccine is given within two weeks of exposure. Unfortunately, the parishioners learned of the exposure too late to get the vaccine.

The director of communications for the Diocese of Bismark says Catholic churches and institutions have been very careful during communion ever since the 2009 outbreak of the H1N11 flu. North Dakota Catholics may pass up communion, washing hands and keeping good hygiene is important to help prevent Hepatitis A. Currently, Bishop John Folda is completely recovered and has been cleared by the doctor to resume normal activities.

http://www.goddiscussion.com/114390/possible-hepatitis-exposure-from-north-dakota-bishop/

[rug]

1. In the seven weeks since this happened, no cases have been reported.

[cleanhippie]

2. God giveth, and god taketh away.

[Goblinmonger]

3. So bread and wine can transubstantiate

into the body and blood of Christ, but it can't get rid of the Hep A virus? Some serious limitations on the miraculous power. Or does Jesus have Hep A now?

[hrmjustin]

4. I hope he did not spread it to anyone.