3 hospital systems in Upstate will tighten visitor restrictions

Three hospital systems in the Upstate will begin restricting patient visitations due to increased flu and respiratory illnesses.Spartanburg Regional statement:As flu and other illnesses continue to surge across the Upstate, Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System is urging the public to avoid visiting its hospital campuses unless absolutely necessary. In addition to the seasonal flu, the rise of respiratory viruses, COVID-19, and norovirus (stomach flu) poses a heightened risk, particularly for hospitalized patients. Effective Friday, Jan. 17, Spartanburg Regional is asking the following not to visit hospitalized patients: Anyone experiencing symptoms, such as fever and cough Those who have tested positive for any respiratory illness Children under 16 years of age These restrictions apply to Spartanburg Regional’s acute-care hospitals, including: Spartanburg Medical Center Spartanburg Medical Center – Mary Black Campus Pelham Medical Center Cherokee Medical Center Union Medical Center The healthcare system also recommends that all visitors wear masks and thoroughly wash their hands to reduce the spread of illnesses. “We appreciate the public’s patience and support in caring for your loved ones,” said Phil Feisal, executive vice president. “Help protect our patients, visitors and staff by not visiting our hospitals if you are sick.” Spartanburg Hospital for Restorative Care and Nursing Homes For Spartanburg Hospital for Restorative Care and nursing homes, please contact the facility directly for their most up-to-date visitation policies. Prisma Health statement: “Beginning Wednesday, Jan. 15, Prisma Health will restrict children under age 16 from visiting hospitalized patients due to increased levels of influenza and other respiratory illnesses in the community.’By taking this proactive best-practice step, we can ensure our hospitals remain safe places for our patients to receive high-quality care,’ said Jacie Volkman, executive director of Prisma’s Department of Infection Prevention. She said exceptions may be made to the visitation restriction by the attending physician and local leadership.”Seasonal influenza activity continues to increase and is elevated across most of the country, said the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The CDC said 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.”South Carolina is also reporting widespread activity, including three flu-related deaths reported, according to the S.C. Department of Public Health. “Other respiratory illnesses have also been on the increase, including COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). “Hospital officials also asked that community members not visit patients if they have a fever, have tested positive for any respiratory illness or are suspected of having one. It’s recommended that all visitors wear masks to help avoid the spread of respiratory illnesses.”The CDC recommends that everyone 6 months and older get an annual flu vaccination. Vaccination is especially important for those at risk for developing severe complications.”People at higher risk of serious flu complications include young children, pregnant women, people with certain chronic health conditions like asthma, diabetes or heart and lung disease and people 65 years and older. “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.”If you become sick with flu, antiviral drugs can be used to treat your illness. They help make flu illness milder, shorten the length of time you’re sick and may also prevent serious flu complications, the CDC said.”Bon Secours St. Francis:Bon Secours St. Francis announced Monday that it will begin restricting patient visitation of children under the age of 16 at both the St. Francis Eastside and St. Francis Downtown hospital locations on Wednesday, Jan. 15.More news: Police send out warning after ‘warm-up’ car theft over weekendIn addition, the hospital is encouraging masking and diligent hand hygiene practices for both staff and visitors to further protect patients and families. More news: GCSO: Pregnant woman missing in SC after taking blanket from dumpster, walking away from hospitalVisitors should not visit patients if they have recently experienced high-risk exposure to someone with a respiratory illness or if they currently have signs and symptoms such as fever, cough and sore throat. More news: Tragic sledding accident ends in death of child, deputies sayFor the full visitor policy, visit:St. Francis DowntownSt. Francis Eastside

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