BOSTON -- As millions of Catholics prepare for the traditional midnight Mass on Christmas Eve, the Boston Archdiocese is making an unusual plea to parishioners.

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Jorge Quiroga Reports On Church

NewsCenter 5'S Jorge Quiroga reported that church leaders are asking anyone with cold or flu symptoms to take certain precautions and avoid some rituals.

The announcement comes days after two elderly men on Cape Cod died of flu complications. But public health officials warn against overreactions saying the cases are not unusual considering the ages of the victims, 89 and 90.

Parishioners attending Christmas Mass are urged not to shake hands as a sign of peace or take communion from the cup if they are not feeling well.

"With the flu the way it has been around here lately, it's probably good advice," said parishioner Tom Colbert.

In the western part of the country, more than 40 children have died from the flu. The outbreak prompted a run on flu shots and church officials there to suspend parts of the mass.

The archdiocese sent a letter to all priests in the Boston-area about flu precautions.

"If a person knows that they have a cold or flu and attend the celebration, for the good of others it would be better not to shake hands, but choose another suitable gesture."

The letter continued, "If one is sick, one should not receive from the Cup."

"My reading of the letter was just basically to use common sense as you would in ordinary social situations," said Rev. Robert Vereecke of St. Ignatius Church.

The experts agree and said the best way to protect against the flu is to get the flu shot if you can and practice good hygiene.

"If you have symptoms, stay home. If you have to go out in public, be careful about keeping your hands clean. Hand washing and hygiene are very important, " said Susan MacDonald of Newton-Wellesley Hospital.

MacDonald suggested coughing into a tissue to help keep hands germ-free.