DALLAS — Fear of the flu has some churches rethinking their traditional hugs and handshakes.

The Catholic and Episcopal dioceses of Dallas sent guidelines to clergy late last week designed to slow the spread of sickness through their congregations.

“This is just a matter of reminding people to use their common sense,” said Dr. Patricia Hughes, director of the office of worship for the 1.5 million-member Dallas Catholic Diocese.

“We’re saying, ‘Be gentle with yourself and be sensible and don’t ever feel compelled to do one thing or another.’”

During a ritual called the “Sign of Peace” — in which parishioners clasp hands and occasionally exchange kisses on the cheek — church leaders suggest less physical contact.

“Perhaps people should be a little more discreet until the flu epidemic is over,” said Hughes. “A smile, head bow and eye contact will generally work for wishing someone peace.”

Bishop James Stanton, head of the Episcopal Diocese of Dallas, took the precautions a step further.

In a two-page letter, he counseled clergy on the importance of hand washing and proper methods of washing and storing the chalice and plate used to serve Communion.

He also suggested parishioners not be allowed to drink wine from a common chalice during Communion or dip their wafers in wine.

“Persons who have the flu, sore throats, coughs, cold sores, etc. should be dissuaded from attending corporate worship services until they are well,” he wrote.

As to the “Passing of the Peace” — which is to the Catholic “Sign of Peace” — Stanton wrote that the observance “should be limited to the bowing of the head to one another or other forms of acknowledgment not involving physical contact of any kind.”