Doctors with the Arkansas Department of Health say this year's flu season is a lot milder than last year, but it's not over yet.  These doctors say getting the flu shot is still your best line of defense.  This year, the shot is 47 percent effective in preventing the illness, and for others, can lessen the severity and length of the illness.  Other ways we can protect ourselves:  stay home when sick!  It is recommended that those with a fever and respiratory symptoms stay home until 24 hours after their fever ends (100 degrees or lower).  Not everyone with the flu will have a fever.  Other symptoms could include a runny nose, body aches, headache, tiredness, diarrhea, or vomiting.

It may be appropriate to refrain from taking of the cup of wine or sharing in the Sign of Peace with the usual handshake during Mass.