DETROIT – An uptick in flu cases has some hospitals across Metro Detroit, including Detroit Medical Center, announcing new visitor guidelines.
DMC said it would launch the new guidelines across its campuses to help keep its patients, staff, and the public safe.
Runny noses, chills, body aches, and other symptoms are having many people rush to emergency rooms and get flu vaccines right now.
“I’m glad I have my flu shot,” said Melissa Yonemura of Taylor, Michigan.
The virus’s rapid spread has many people taking steps to prevent influenza.
“I’ve seen my niece and nephew get the flu recently,” Yonemura said. “I’m trying to keep my parents at home, keep them safe.”
Staff at Detroit Medical Center said DMC is introducing new visitor guidelines to help reduce the risk of continued flu spread.
“This is, again, a safety net that DMC has decided to put in place,” said Dr. Teena Chopra, a Professor of Infectious Diseases and Director of Infection Prevention for the Detroit Medical Center. “We do this every year.”
Under the new guidelines, which are currently in effect:
- All patients are allowed up to two visitors at any one time.
- Visitors ages 12 and under, including siblings and other relatives, will not be allowed on inpatient hospital floors or in the observation units
- Visitors ages 13 and over who have a fever, cough, or rash are asked to choose another time to visit. This applies to both private and semi-private rooms. If the hospitals have policies that are more restrictive than the proposed guidelines, they will continue to use them
- Visitors who exhibit illness or cold symptoms are encouraged to visit during a period of wellness
“If we see that they have a cough or they are not feeling well, they have a fever, we don’t want them to transmit infections to others,” Dr Chopra said.
According to DMC staff, the new visitor guidelines are a proactive measure to help protect the community.
“If you’ve still not had your flu vaccine, that is the number one thing you want to do,” Dr. Chopra said. “It’s never too late to get your flu vaccine.
Healthcare workers also suggest washing your hands with soap and water, wiping down, and disinfecting surfaces to help prevent the spread of influenza.
Also, avoid going to work or school if you’re feeling ill.