The flu season is in full swing, and that means an increased volume of patients at local hospitals. It also means an increased number of individuals going to the hospital to visit friends and loved ones who are hospitalized. Because of the seriousness of the H1N1 flu, Ephraim McDowell Regional Medical Center in Danville and Fort Logan Hospital in Stanford are limiting visitation with patients.
Furthermore, visitation in the hospitals' obstetrics units is limited to brothers and sisters and immediate family members or a significant other only when they are not sick.
As a further precaution, the hospital is asking individuals seeking medical attention for flu-like symptoms to wear a surgical mask while inside the hospital. The masks are provided by the hospital in registration areas.
In an effort to help curb the outbreak of the flu, everyone is encouraged to:
* Wash your hands frequently. Use soap and warm water and rub your hands under running water for at least 15 seconds. Use an alcohol-based gel if soap and water are not available.
