Prisma Health is temporarily barring visitors age 15 or younger from its hospitals starting Tuesday, a move the health system says is meant to protect patients and staff as flu infection rates climb well above normal levels across South Carolina.
The restriction, announced by Prisma Health and covered by FOX Carolina News, applies to anyone 15 or younger and takes effect Tuesday, Nov. 10. Prisma Health said the step is intended to help protect patients and team members as flu infections continue to run higher than usual in the community.
The policy isn't absolute. Exceptions may be allowed in some circumstances, according to the station's report, including when a loved one is imminently dying. Prisma Health is also recommending that all visitors, regardless of age, wear masks while in its facilities.
How South Carolina Compares Nationally
The timing lines up with troubling statewide numbers. A CDC map cited in the same report showed South Carolina has the second-highest level of flu activity in the country. Separately, the CDC's own weekly surveillance update noted that seasonal flu activity continues to increase in many parts of the country and is higher than typically observed at this point in the season, according to the agency's FluView report.
South Carolina's flu season began Oct. 4, and case counts had initially tracked similarly to past years, according to WSPA. That report also noted that seasonal flu activity is increasing in many areas of the country, including South Carolina, as hospitals introduce restrictions. Normal visitation guidelines are expected to resume once illness levels in the community subside, per the same outlet.
The state has logged 2,279 flu cases so far this season, as reported by WMBF News. That same report said no flu deaths have been recorded in South Carolina this season, while North Carolina has reported nine.
Other Upstate Hospitals Follow Suit
Prisma Health isn't alone in tightening the rules. Bon Secours St. Francis Downtown and Bon Secours St. Francis Eastside will also temporarily restrict anyone 16 or younger from visiting, according to the WSPA report, with that change also beginning Tuesday.
For families with hospitalized loved ones in the Upstate, the message from area health systems is consistent: limit exposure for the youngest visitors now, with the expectation that normal rules return once flu activity eases in the community.
