With the flu season in the immediate future and the threat of H1N1 looming over our heads, it is no surprise that people are asking, "Do I still have to shake hands?" A firm handshake has been a typical Western cultural greeting in business and social situations, a standard offering of the Sign of Peace at mass, and a congenial way to approach others as a sign of goodwill.

Sitting in church this past Sunday the priest made an announcement that until further notice the offering of a handshake or a hug was banned in an effort to deter the spread of H1N1.