Due to the number of influenza cases in the community, Huron Regional Medical Center (HRMC) is asking the public to limit visitation to patients to reduce the risk of spreading infections, according to Pam Shoultz, RN, infection control nurse.
“We are asking for the community’s cooperation in controlling the spread of infections, especially to the young, elderly and immune-compromised persons,” said Shoultz.
Visitor restrictions recommend those visiting the hospital be:
- Over the age of 12,
- in good health, and
- free of any recent respiratory or stomach flu symptoms
“While support of family and friends is important to the healing process,” Shoultz notes, “Patients are stressed by the very experience of being in the hospital and may have weakened immune systems that make it difficult to fight infections.”
Shoultz says the visitor restrictions will remain in effect for as long as the “flu cases” remain widespread. Signs are posted at the hospital to alert visitors.
Instead of visiting someone in person, Shoultz suggests calling or sending flowers or a gift. Another option is to send an ecard from the hospital website at www.huronregional.org.