This year we have an opportunity to help our neighbor. Recently, the Chicago Department of Public Health ( CDPH ) has warned our community about a meningitis outbreak. This outbreak only appears to be surfacing in Chicago.
CDPH has made available a meningitis shot to fight off infection. I was glad to see that Ald. Tom Tunney stepped out front on this by his public example of getting the shot.
Let me be very clear: This outbreak is spread casually, and there is no need for sexual contact. Any action that puts one in contact with another's salivathrough kissing, sharing cigarettes or drinks, or sneezingcan put one at risk of getting meningitis.
The CDPH has responded to this outbreak in a very responsible way, and I applaud its efforts. That is why I am calling on all gay-bar owners to alert their patrons to this risk factor.
Likewise, I am calling on Catholic churches in the Boystown area and all the parishes to begin a moratorium on communion. The wine cup could be a way to spread the virus farther.
I am also calling on Dignity/Chicago as well as the Chicago Lesbian and Gay Archdiocesan Outreach ministry to join in this effort.
It is not my intention to interfere with the Coalition of Welcoming Churches, but I think it prudent if they also have a moratorium on the Communion Cup.
I got the shot after Tunney's lead.
Joe Murray
Chicago