The Archdiocese of Lusaka has banned the sharing of peace via shaking of hands and has cancelled all church programs until further notice.

And the Seventh Day Adventist Church has also cancelled all church gatherings, advising members to worship from home.

Meanwhile, Inspector General of Police Kakoma Kanganja has indefinitely postponed the Zambia Police Service annual ball owing to the cholera epidemic.

In a statement, Thursday, ADL Pastoral Coordinator Father Thomas Banda also advised Catholics to stay away from funeral houses saying only a priest could go there for prayers.

“The Pastoral Office of the Archdiocese of Lusaka wishes to advise all parishes of the following: 1. In all parishes you are advised not to do the exchange of peace through shaking of hands during liturgical celebrations or indeed any time when you hooey to meet until further notice. No meetings of more than six people especially in parishes situated in the areas where cholera has been reported. This means no Parish Council meetings, Catechism lessons or Lay movement meetings, etc. 3. In all areas where cholera has been reported, Parish Council meetings should be reduced to Parish Council Executive meetings. 4. No gathering at funeral houses in all parishes. Only the priest may attend the funeral house for prayers. 5. No group visits from parish to parish. 6. The Parish Executives must ensure that there is clean water and soap in all water closets for washing hands at all times. Lastly, kindly adhere to all cholera preventative guidelines given by designated authorities,” stated Fr Banda.

And in a separate statement, the SDA also announced cancellation of church services.

“The church will give further updates on worship services once any changes/developments occur. Members are advised to obey the health guidelines given by government during this period. Members are all encouraged to worship at home and observe the day of Fasting and Prayer. Let us also pray for the situation to return to normal and pray for the bereaved families,” read the statement.

Meanwhile, Kanganja also cancelled the annual ball.

“The Inspector General of Police, Mr Kakoma Kanganja has postponed the Zambia Police Service 2017 National Annual Ball which was scheduled to take place on 12th January, 2018 as a result of the looming outbreak of Cholera…The annual ball will only be held when the situation normalizes and this will be after relevant authorities review the Cholera situation in the country,” stated Kanganja.