Endless Mountains Health Systems restricts visitors in response to reports of local cases of H1N1 Influenza

H1N1 influenza continues to spread in Pennsylvania, as well as around the globe. There have been local reports of influenza cases in area school districts. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) expect the upcoming flu season to be more severe and affect higher numbers of people.

According to Pennsylvania Department of Health data, over 60% of the confirmed cases have been in children up to age 19 years. Compared to other influenza seasons, there is an increase in the death rate (worldwide) from influenza in this age group. Pregnant women are especially at risk.

Because of the risk to children of severe illness due to influenza, Endless Mountains Health Systems is asking parents of children under the age of 18 years not to allow them to visit patients in the hospital. In addition, visitors of any age should postpone their visits if they’ve had a recent fever or any flu-like symptoms. Visitors of any age should be limited to two at a time per patient.

Restriction of visitors with respiratory symptoms has been in effect at EMHS since early September, with signs posted at each entry point, asking persons with symptoms of respiratory illness NOT to visit in the hospital.

For questions regarding visitor restriction, or in the case of special circumstances, please call Endless Mountains Health Systems at 278-3801.

To stop the spread of flu, remember to sneeze or cough into a tissue and keep hands away from your face. Wash hands often with soap and water. (Alcohol-based hand cleaner works, too.) Keep frequently used surfaces clean (like knobs, counter tops and desks). Stay home from work or school if you are sick, until at least 24 hours without fever, without the use of fever-reducing medicine).

For more information on prevention and protection, call 1-877-PA HEALTH, or go to H1N1in PA.com.