Prisma Health
COLUMBIA, S.C. (WOLO)– Prisma Health officials say beginning on Wednesday, Jan. 15, patient visitation from children under the age of 16 will be restricted due to an increase in flu and respiratory illnesses in the community.
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), seasonal influenza activity continues to increase and is elevated across most of the country.
Also, CDC officials say there have been at least 5.3 million flu illnesses, 63,000 hospitalizations, and 2,700 deaths so far this season, including at least 11 children.
In South Carolina there have been reports of widespread activity, including three flu-related deaths reported, according to the S.C. Department of Public Health.
“By taking this proactive best-practice step, we can ensure our hospitals remain safe places for our patients to receive high-quality care,” says Jacie Volkman, executive director of Prisma’s Department of Infection Prevention.
Additionally, Volkman says exceptions may be made to the visitation restriction by the attending physician and local leadership.
Other respiratory illnesses have also been on the increase, including COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).
Hospital officials ask that community members not visit patients if they have a fever, have tested positive for any respiratory illness or are suspected of having one.
All visitors are recommended to wear masks to help avoid the spread of respiratory illnesses.
The CDC recommends that everyone 6 months and older get an annual flu vaccination.
To help stop the spread of illness during flu-and-cold season, the CDC also recommends the following:
Wash hands often with soap and water. If soap and water aren’t available, use an alcohol-based hand rub.
Avoid close contact with people who are sick. If you are sick, limit contact with others as much as possible to keep from infecting them.
Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Put tissue in the trashing after using it, then perform hand hygiene such as washing your hands.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
Categories: Local News, State
Tags: Prisma Health