Steps to protect patients during flu season

Due to the increase in flu and flu-like illness, we’re taking some extra steps to protect our patients. Please refrain from visiting patients if you have any symptoms, including fever (100.2 or greater) and cough, runny nose, muscle aches or sore throat.

Children under age 12 are not allowed to visit. Our Neonatal Intensive Care Unit is restricting visitors under age 16. This is due to widespread flu in schools and because children can spread the virus up to 3 days before showing symptoms.

Patients who show the above symptoms will be provided a mask to cover their nose and mouth while in our clinics and public areas.

We appreciate your cooperation.

To help prevent the spread of viruses:

• Get your flu shot!
• Practice good hand hygiene, cleaning your hands often and especially before eating.
• Sneeze or cough into your elbow or shoulder and clean your hands after blowing your nose.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. Viruses can spread this way.
• Limit contact with others who are sick
• If you’re sick, stay home to avoid spreading the flu or other respiratory diseases. If you have a fever of 100.2 or greater, stay home until your temperature is normal for 24 hours without fever-reducing medication. Most people will get better at home, however if you’re very sick or worried about your illness, contact your health care provider.