CaroMont Health announced today that it is temporarily restricting visitors
under the age of 13 to CaroMont Regional Medical Center effective Friday,
February 24 at 5:00 p.m. Due to the growing prevalence of the flu, the
decision to temporarily restrict visitors is to help prevent the spread
of the flu to patients, visitors and employees. Additionally, guests who
have compromised immune systems or are experiencing flu-like symptoms
should not visit a patient in the hospital during this time. This restriction
also includes visitors to The Birthplace.
“The number of influenza cases presenting to CaroMont’s Emergency
Department have reached more than ten percent, an indicator that triggers
visitor restriction for hospitals across the state and country,”
said Todd Davis, MD, Chief Medical Officer at CaroMont Health. “This
extra line of protection is needed right now to reduce the risk of exposing
vulnerable populations and is in the best interest of our patients, staff
and the community.”
The restriction announced today was developed and implemented in previous
years to address influenza outbreaks and is similar to other area hospitals
that have adopted similar restrictions. The flu restriction plan will
remain in place until CaroMont officials, in accordance with Centers for
Disease Control recommendations, determine it is no longer needed. If
you have not already gotten a flu shot, you are urged to do so.
Typically, the flu virus is spread when an infected person coughs or sneezes
near a susceptible person or contact is made with a contaminated surface.
Adults tend to spread the virus from the day before symptoms begin through
5-10 days after the onset of the illness. Young children and individuals
with compromised immune systems may take longer to present symptoms and
are more likely to spread the virus to more people.
How do I know if I have the flu?
Typical flu symptoms include a fever of 100 degrees or higher and any
of the following:
- Cough and/or sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Headache and/or body aches
- Chills
- Fatigue
- Nausea, vomiting, and/or diarrhea (most common in children)
The best way to avoid getting the flu is to get vaccinated. Additionally,
you should follow these precautions:
- Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue or a shirt sleeve when you cough
or sneeze. Dispose of the tissue in a trash receptacle after each use.
- Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, especially after you cough
or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers can also be effective.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth as these areas are vehicles for
germs to enter the body.
- Avoid close contact with symptomatic individuals when possible.
- Contact your health provider and/or local health departments for the flu vaccine.
- Stay hydrated and get plenty of rest.