An Arabic-language magazine published in Germany is being investigated because of an article that warned readers not to shake hands with gays because they can transmit disease.

The article, titled “A flesh-eating bacteria and sexual abnormality,” appeared in al-Salam, a free publication available in businesses throughout Berlin.

“One never knows what kind of bacteria and germs are found on them,” it said of gay men.

The article contained quotes from people the publication said were authorities on skin diseases, and was accompanied by photographs of various skin infections.

The LGBT Association of Berlin-Brandenburg filed an official complaint with police this week.

“It is now being examined to determine whether it should be dealt with as defamation or incitement,” said association spokesperson Alexander Zinn.

Zinn also called on Germany’s large Muslim community to disavow the article.

Incitement against minorities, including gays, is illegal in Germany, but in the past similar cases were not prosecuted after Muslims complained that to do so would infringe on their religious rights.