THE Minor Basilica of the Black Nazarene or Quiapo Church in Manila has decided to stop using a misting tent to disinfect churchgoers.
Father Danichi Hui, parochial vicar, said they stopped the use of the misting tent amid concerns over its possible harmful effect.
“We have stopped using our misting tent because of that,” said Father Hui. “We will replace it with UV (ultra violet) tunnel instead,” he added.
Environmental health group EcoWaste Coalition called on church leaders not to spray devotees with chemical disinfectant because its continued use may have a harmful effect.
The group said health scientists have warned that spraying the body does not kill the virus inside the body and may worsen the clinical condition of the individual infected with the new coronavirus disease.
EcoWaste cited the guidance document published by the World Health Organization stating that “spraying individuals with disinfectants is not recommended under any circumstances.”
WHO warned that “spraying individuals with chlorine and other toxic chemicals could result in eye and skin irritation, bronchospasm due to inhalation, and gastrointestinal effects such as nausea and vomiting.”
Father Hui said they will continue to implement other heath safety protocols, such as hand disinfection, foot bath, and body temperature check for churchgoers.
They will also conduct regular disinfection of the church.
