High Point Regional Health System Restricts Visitation to Prevent the Spread of the Flu
10/8/2009

Effective Thursday, October 8 officials at High Point Regional Health System are asking residents for full support in a new policy that will restrict visitors who are under the age of 18.

“This decision is based on recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control to combat the spread of influenza, including H1N1 among patients," said Greg Taylor, MD and chief medical officer at High Point Regional. “Our decision is similar to other hospitals across the nation to restrict children from visiting the hospital while flu is prevalent in our community."

Accordingly, those who are under age 18 will not be permitted to visit patients, including siblings, friends or family members. The restrictions apply to lobbies, waiting areas and patient rooms. The policy does not apply to children who need emergency care or hospitalization.

This restriction is in addition to safety measures already in place requiring all individuals entering the hospital to sanitize their hands.

High Point Regional recognizes this policy may cause some disruption to families; however, the hospital's first priority is ensuring the safest possible environment for patients and diminishing potential exposure to the flu.

High Point Regional will continue to evaluate this situation as the flu season progresses.