Philippine health officials are sending out a message to its citizens; crucifixion can be bad for your health.

Every Good Friday there are dozens of men that reenact the crucifixion of Jesus Christ by being nailed to a wooden crosses with six inch nails.  The Philippine Government is warning that the nails used for crucifixion should be cleaned and sterilised.  Also, citizens are urged to get a tetanus shot prior to participating in this ceremony.

Some citizens that take part in such ceremonies also use a whip to lash their backs before being nailed to the cross.  The Government has also warned that the condition of the whip should be checked before the lashings.  A dirty whip could cause infection, Government officials noted.

The Catholic Church frowns upon crucifixions and self-flagellation.  However, these ceremonies have actually become tourist attractions in some local towns.

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Tags: Crucifixion, Self-Flagellation

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