Temporary Visitor Restrictions to End at Marion County Hospitals
Created on Friday, 07 March 2014 21:01
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 7, 2014
(INDIANAPOLIS) – Visitor restrictions put in place at Marion County hospitals in January will end as flu activity in the area decreases. Normal visitation policies resume on Saturday, Mar. 8.
A visitor restriction policy was implemented by the Indianapolis Coalition for Patient Safety starting Jan. 22 at the request of Marion County Public Health Department Director Dr. Virginia A. Caine after a rise in flu activity and a concern for patient exposure to the virus.
The number of patient visits reported by Marion County emergency departments for influenza-like illnesses has dropped 42 percent since peaking during the week of Jan. 19-25.
“Even though the visitor restrictions will be lifted, it is important to remember that flu season is not over,” said Dr. Caine. “Everyone must do their part to protect themselves and others against the flu by properly washing hands and covering their cough.”
Dr. Caine said it is important for anyone with the flu to stay away from work and school until symptoms are resolved. And, most importantly, do not visit a patient at the hospital if you have flu symptoms such as a fever or cough.
The Indianapolis Coalition for Patient Safety is comprised of chief executive, medical, nursing, quality, safety and pharmacy officers from six Indianapolis health systems. In addition, there is participation by entities such as Eli Lilly, Indiana and Purdue Universities, the Regenstrief Institute, Inc., Indiana Hospital Association and HealthCare Excel. The coalition is a non-profit public charity organization.
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Media Contact:
Curt Brantingham
Media/Public Information Coordinator
317-221-2316 (o) │ 317-525-7450 (c)
