ESCANABA, Mich. (WZMQ) – OSF HealthCare St. Francis Hospital & Medical Group is limiting visits due to an increase of seasonal flu and other respiratory illnesses.
Effective Friday, January 5, OSF is setting a limit of two visitors per patient at a time. Visitors must be age 18 or older. Visits to patients in isolation for influenza-like illnesses should be limited to those necessary for the patient’s emotional well-being and care. Anyone who is not feeling well or has had flu-like symptoms in the past seven days should not visit hospitalized patients.
“The number of positive influenza cases has been increasing and we are also seeing an increase in the number of overall upper respiratory illnesses,” said Nicole Pirlot, infection preventionist at OSF St. Francis Hospital. “Symptoms are similar to those of influenza and the viruses are just as contagious. We have also seen an increase of respiratory illnesses in small children and would like to remind people not to touch the hands or face of small children and infants, even if you are not actively sick. These viruses can be very dangerous for little ones.”
To prevent the spread of infection, OSF also encourages patients seeking treatment for influenza or other respiratory illnesses with symptoms such as a cough, fever, or sore throat to wear masks, which are available at the facility. Those entering and leaving a patient’s room are asked to wash their hands with soap and water or to use an alcohol-based hand foam or gel.
Pirlot says these precautions will remain in place until case numbers decline to a safe level.
“Typically, flu season can run as long as March, but we watch the numbers weekly,” she told WZMQ 19. “As the cases decrease to a number where we feel the risk is not as great of affecting staff, visitors, and of course patients—being our number one concern—then we take those restrictions off.”
People are advised to cough or sneeze into their arm, shoulder, or a tissue to reduce the spread of germs, and those who are sick should stay home.
“If you are sick, high-touch surfaces—like doorknobs—you can wipe those down at home, and that will help to control illness within your own home,” Pirlot said.
OSF appreciates the public’s support and understanding. The healthcare facility says vaccination against influenza remains the single most effective tool in reducing the risk of severe illness or hospitalization. Flu Shots are available through any primary care office with the OSF Medical Group.
For more tips on staying healthy during flu season, visit cdc.gov/flu.
