Temporary Change to Visitation Policy During Flu Season

October 9, 2009

Jackson, Mich. — To protect patients from the highly contagious influenza virus during the flu season, Allegiance Health has announced a temporary change to its visitation policy.

Effective immediately, the following individuals will not be permitted to visit the hospital:

  • Individuals age 18 and under
  • Anyone with the following symptoms:
    • Fever
    • Cough
    • Sore throat
    • Runny or stuffy nose
    • Body aches
    • Headache
    • Chills
    • Fatigue

Additionally, visitation to the following departments is now restricted:

  • Labor & Delivery, Women & Newborns, Obstetrics (OB) Triage and Special Care Nursery:  Limited to patient’s husband/significant other/support person and grandparents of newborns.
  • Pediatrics:  Limited to parents and grandparents.

"We understand this change will be an inconvenience to our visitors," said Jacalyn Liebowitz, vice president for Patient Care Continuum at Allegiance Health. "However, given our significant increase in patient volume and an influx of patients presenting with flu-like symptoms, we believe these steps are necessary to protect the health of our patients, staff and community."

Liebowitz noted that hospitals across the country are adopting similar, temporary policies as the flu season approaches.

"Both the H1N1 and seasonal flu viruses are highly contagious and can be extremely devastating to those who are already sick and in the hospital, particularly small children," Liebowitz said. "We are committed to providing a safe and protected environment for our patients—and this new policy reflects our commitment."

Allegiance Health is continuing to work closely with local and state health agencies to monitor the progress of both the H1N1 and seasonal flu in the region. Vaccinations for the H1N1 virus will be announced by the Jackson County Health Department once the vaccine becomes available locally.

For the latest flu information, visit AllegianceHealth.org or cdc.gov.