The Maltese church said today that Holy Communion in the mouth is being temporarily suspended to limit the spreading of Coronavirus (COVID-19).

In a statement, the Curia said that the host will be given to worshippers in their hands only until further notice.

Priests have been told to wash their hands and disinfect them before saying Mass and, where necessary, even before Holy Communion. Lay people who help out during Holy Communion are also being requested to disinfect their hands.