To help protect vulnerable populations from the H1N1 influenza that is prevalent in the community, RMH is implementing temporary visitation guidelines beginning today, Monday, Oct. 26.
The visitor restrictions are as follows:
– Children and young people under age 18 may not visit patients in the hospital.
– Adult visitors are limited to two per patient.
– Anyone under the age of 18 should not be brought into hospital waiting rooms unless that person is here for treatment.
Exceptions to these temporary restrictions may be granted for those visiting patients who have life-threatening conditions.
“Our goal is to protect vulnerable populations, including our patients and young people, from the spread of H1N1,” explained Addison Parris, M.D., RMH infectious diseases physician. “The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have emphasized that children and young adults are particularly vulnerable to this new flu. We also know from seasonal flu that children often spread the illness. By restricting visitation, we hope to help reduce the spread of illness during this challenging flu season.”
The visitor restrictions will stay in effect until further notice.
RMH discourages those with flu-like symptoms from coming to the hospital except for treatment. For the protection of patients, visitors and staff, RMH screens visitors for flu-like symptoms. Protective face masks and hand sanitizer are available at hospital entrances.
For the latest information on H1N1, go to www.cdc.gov/H1N1flu or www.vdh.state.va.us.
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