Van Diest Medical Center announced that a hospital-wide visitor restriction has been placed into effect as of Wednesday, December 31st, 2014, due to a significant increase in hospitalizations for influenza (respiratory “flu”). Though the timing is difficult during the holidays, officials believe it is critical to reducing potential exposure to the flu virus for patients, staff and visitors. The following restrictions will be in place until further notice: • Visitors are limited to IMMEDIATE family members only (spouse/significant other, parent, sibling or child) • Only TWO visitors per patient at a time • Visitors will be asked to wear a mask when visiting anyone with a respiratory infection who is in droplet isolation • People who are ill or sick are requested to NOT visit patients. (Symptoms include fever, chills, muscle or body aches, sore throat, cough, stuffy nose, headache and fatigue) Other things to consider: • If individuals have not been vaccinated against the flu, it is the best protection against the majority of flu viruses this season, and vaccinations are still available • Masks and hand-washing stations are located throughout the hospital and their use is strongly encouraged for families and visitors • Hospital officials are working closely with the Iowa Department of Public Health and Hamilton County Public Health to monitor flu activity • Information has been communicated to local clinics in Webster City so they are aware of the restrictions • Patients sent to the hospital for admission or testing may be asked to don a mask The visitor restrictions will remain in effect until a decrease in admissions and positive flu test results are realized. The hospital appreciates cooperation with these efforts to keep the potential risk of influenza exposure to a minimum.
Posted on: Thu, 01 Jan 2015 14:22:57 +0000