Jennie Stuart Medical Center is temporarily restricting visitation to the hospital as Deaconess Health begins restrictions at all of its facilities to help limit exposure to contagious respiratory viruses.
In response to “a steady increase in flu activity and RSV,” Deaconess announced Friday these restrictions:
- No visitors with symptoms of illness such as sudden onset of fever, cough, headache, muscle and joint pain, sore throat and runny nose.
- No visitors under the age of 16. Visitors should check the hospital’s website or call the facility in advance to learn more about its specific restrictions and any exceptions.
“The policy is designed to help protect the most vulnerable patients from respiratory viruses,” a press release states. “As with any time of the year, a visitor who is not feeling well should stay home. Visitors should observe the standard practices of washing hands and covering coughs and sneezes when around others. Masks will be provided for guests by the facility.”
In a report released Monday, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said, “Seasonal influenza activity is elevated and continues to increase across the country.”
Deaconess said its hospitals “are also seeing an uptick in hospitalizations from RSV and COVID-19.”
The Christian County Health Department provides vaccinations for flu, COVID and RSV, although the RSV shots are available only for children. Walk-ins are accepted when the Canton Street facility is not busy, but appointments are preferred. The phone number is 270-887-4160. Online appointments can be scheduled here.
Some local pharmacies also provide vaccines. Jennie Care does not.
