The Brooklyn Diocese has asked parishioners to refrain from drinking wine during Communion to avoid the spread of germs.

Diocese officials warned churchgoers Tuesday that customs will change to prevent a swine flu outbreak and the passing of other germs. It is the first time Brooklyn churches will skip serving wine at Mass.

Priests will still give out bread during the ceremony, but parishioners will need to accept it by hand, instead of mouth. Churchgoers have also been cautioned to avoid shaking hands.