Title: Atrium Health Implements Temporary Visitor Restrictions to Combat Rising Respiratory Viruses in Charlotte Area
In response to a surge in respiratory viruses such as COVID-19, the flu, and RSV, Atrium Health has implemented temporary visitor restrictions for young children in the greater Charlotte area. The measures, aimed at protecting vulnerable patients, apply to children aged 12 and younger at Atrium Health locations.
The new restrictions mean that children within the specified age range will not be permitted to visit patients in Atrium Health hospitals, behavioral health, and inpatient rehabilitation locations. However, exceptions may be made for visiting dying family members, ensuring compassionate care is upheld.
The primary reason behind these restrictions is the rising incidence of respiratory viruses, particularly the highly transmissible COVID-19 variant. Given the potential for children to inadvertently carry and spread these viruses, Atrium Health is taking proactive steps to safeguard patients’ well-being.
Visitors who are unwell or have a confirmed case of a respiratory virus are strongly urged not to visit Atrium Health facilities, further reducing the risk of transmission. Health officials emphasize the importance of adhering to these guidelines to protect vulnerable patients from potentially severe illness.
In addition to visitor restrictions, Atrium Health is also updating its mask policy in high-risk settings to combat the spread of respiratory illnesses. Masks will now be required when entering a patient’s room in various healthcare facilities, including acute care hospitals, rehabilitation hospitals, emergency departments, skilled nursing facilities, behavioral health, inpatient hospice, infusion centers, and designated cancer care areas.
While these restrictions and mask policies are temporary, they serve as crucial measures to shield vulnerable patients during the peak of the respiratory virus season. Atrium Health is dedicated to providing the highest level of care possible and is actively monitoring and responding to the evolving situation to protect the community.
In contrast, Novant Health does not currently have visitor restrictions in place; however, they are closely monitoring the spread of respiratory viruses to ensure the safety of their patients and visitors.
As the prevalence of respiratory viruses continues to rise, it is essential for healthcare providers to take proactive measures to protect both patients and visitors. Atrium Health’s temporary restrictions and updated mask policies demonstrate their commitment to ensuring the well-being of their patients during this challenging period.
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