In an effort to protect hospital patients from the spread of 2009 H1N1 and seasonal flu, Saint Joseph’s Hospital and Saint Joseph’s Children’s Hospital have implemented temporary visitation restrictions on certain units.

Effective immediately, no one younger than 18, other than parents, will be permitted to visit patients on Pediatrics, the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit and the Birth Center. In addition, visitors on these units are restricted to four persons at one time. In the NICU, these visitors are limited to parents, and up to four additional support people of  their choosing, such as grandparents.

This age restriction reflects the higher prevalence of 2009 H1N1 among children and adolescents, putting them at greater risk of carrying the virus into health care settings. Medical evidence suggests infected persons can transmit the virus as much as 24 hours before displaying symptoms.

"Our patients are our first priority. Our goal as health care providers is to use every available and appropriate measure to protect them from exposure to outside infections,” said  Sharon Kostroski, vice president, quality and safety. “These visitation changes come at a time when the H1N1 virus has already spread, and before the seasonal flu typically appears in our region.”

Additionally, individuals displaying symptoms of influenza-like illness should not visit the hospital at all. Flu symptoms include fever, cough, body aches, sore throat or runny nose. Those visiting flu patients should wear a hospital mask, and wash hands with soap and water for 15 seconds or use alcohol-based hand rub before entering and exiting the patient’s room.

Persons who live with flu patients are also asked to wear a mask, which is provided, and keep it on until leaving the hospital. They are also asked to not enter public or lounge areas, such as the cafeteria, gift shop and waiting areas. Pregnant women are strongly discouraged from visiting.

This visiting policy change will remain in effect during the flu season and while prevalence of flu in the region is extraordinarily high.

“We understand the inconvenience this policy change may cause area families.” Kostroski said. “But we hope they understand that we need to control the spread of flu to our patients, as well as to protect our staff from infection so they can continue to provide quality care.”

Limited exceptions may be made for expectant and new fathers younger than 18 and, for example, instances involving patients at the end of life. Exceptions would be allowed at the discretion of the attending physician and hospital staff.