The Anglican Communion of Nigeria has announced the suspension of handshakes during church services as a precautionary measure to prevent the spread of coronavirus. The Church’s General Secretary, Gershinen Dajur, disclosed that the leadership of the church has directed the availability of soap, water for handwashing, and hand sanitizers during services or events.
In a statement, the church emphasized the need to trust God in troubled times and encouraged adherence to good personal hygiene practices such as proper handwashing and coughing etiquette. The church also advised the use of individual communion cups and non-contagious gestures instead of handshakes and hugs during the exchange of peace.
The Catholic Church had previously suspended handshakes and hugs during its services two weeks ago. Despite Nigeria having recorded only two confirmed cases and with the global death toll exceeding 4,000, churches in Nigeria are taking proactive measures to prevent the spread of the virus.