Title: Memorial Hospital and Elkhart General Mandate Mask-Wearing for Visitors Due to Surge in Respiratory Illnesses
Starting this Thursday, Memorial Hospital and Elkhart General will be implementing a new policy requiring all visitors to wear masks within their premises. The decision comes as a response to the recent increase in respiratory illnesses, including a surge in Covid-19, flu, and RSV cases in the area, according to Beacon Health officials.
Over the past month, Beacon Health has noticed a significant rise in the “triple threat” of respiratory illnesses—Covid-19, flu, and RSV—in the community. In an effort to curb the spread and protect patients and staff, the hospitals have opted to institute a mask mandate for all visitors. Furthermore, the number of guests allowed at any given time will be limited to two individuals.
It is important to note that this policy will only apply to South Bend Memorial and Elkhart General hospitals, while other non-hospital Beacon facilities will still have the option to wear masks. However, Beacon Health officials stress the importance of taking precautions during the holiday season and aim to maintain a safe environment for everyone involved.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued a Health Alert to healthcare providers on December 14th, highlighting the rise in respiratory illnesses in the region. In light of this alert, Dr. Michelle Bache, Vice President of Medical Affairs at Elkhart General, advises those with cold symptoms, cough, or fever to stay home and seek medical attention if necessary.
Vaccines for all three respiratory illnesses—Covid-19, flu, and RSV—are readily available, and Beacon Health officials strongly urge members of the community to get vaccinated. Dr. Jim Harris, Director of the Flu Clinic at the South Bend Clinic, emphasizes the seriousness of these respiratory illnesses and the importance of receiving the vaccine.
The decision to implement the mask mandate and visitor restrictions aligns with the increase in cases within the community, which Beacon Health officials attribute as the driving force behind their precautions. However, St. Joseph Health System has stated that their visitation guidelines will remain unchanged during this period.
Goshen Health has also taken steps to protect patients by implementing mandatory mask-wearing for hospital colleagues during clinical interactions. This measure intends to prevent any potential transmission of respiratory illnesses between medical personnel and patients.
Memorial Hospital and Elkhart General’s new visitor policy, alongside the wider availability of vaccines, is part of a collective effort to reduce the spread of respiratory illnesses during this critical time. By adhering to these guidelines, individuals can contribute to safeguarding their own health and that of the community.
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