In light of a marked increase in respiratory illnesses including the flu, RSV, and COVID-19 within the Triangle, Duke University Health System has enacted a temporary policy to limit visitations across its hospitals and ambulatory surgery centers starting Monday. As CBS17 reports, the new restrictions aim to safely manage the surge and ensure the well-being of patients.
During daytime hours, in-patient visitations will be confined to two individuals aged 12 and over, while those seeking to stay overnight need to be at least 18 years old, "unless they are the parent or caregiver of a pediatric patient," as per hospital officials. One notable aspect of this strategy is that children under 12 are generally not to visit without prior approval from healthcare providers and only under special circumstances. ABC11 notes that the restrictions are in place "to prevent the spread of Flu, RSV and COVID-19" as part of a broader preventative approach.
Duke Health is also urging all visitors to engage in frequent hand washing and to wear masks when visiting patients. Masks and hand hygiene stations have been made widely available throughout their facilities to aid visitors in adhering to these guidelines. According to ABC11, the stipulations are designed to empower visitors to participate actively in safeguarding against virus transmission within its buildings.
The institution has additionally advised that any potential visitors who are experiencing fever, cough, or other flu-like symptoms should best remain at home. This measure emphasizes the necessity of caution to reduce the risk of infecting others. "Restrictions are temporary and will be reviewed as cases of respiratory illnesses decline in the Triangle," DUHS stated yesterday on CBS17, highlighting the responsive nature of their policy. This sentiment echoes across all reports, as WRAL also details.
