Hospitals in Marion County will soon enforce visitor restrictions in response to “increased respiratory virus activity,” according to the Marion County Public Health Department (MCPHD).
Although Indiana’s Influenza Dashboard shows influenza-like illness activity as low, there have already been five flu-related deaths in the state this season. The restrictions aim to protect vulnerable patients from exposure to respiratory viruses.
Visitors displaying symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat, headache, muscle and joint pain, or runny nose will be barred from entering Marion County hospitals. Additionally, visitors under the age of 18 will not be permitted.
“Protecting our health, and the health of loved ones, is important during this time of year, especially the very young and those over age 65,” MCPHD Director Virginia A. Caine wrote in a prepared statement. “Flu can cause significant illness and, in some cases, lead to extended hospitalizations or death. RSV can also result in hospitalization and even death for infants and those over age 60.”
MCPHD has also urged visitors who feel unwell to stay home. Those entering hospitals will be required to follow health precautions, including washing hands and covering coughs and sneezes. Hospitals will provide masks during flu season for added protection.
The restrictions will apply to Community Health Network, Franciscan Health Indianapolis, Ascension St. Vincent, Indiana University Health, and Eskenazi Hospital. Exceptions will be made for specific cases, such as end-of-life visits, but visitors are encouraged to check with individual hospitals for details.
While MCPHD did not specify a timeline for when restrictions will take effect across all facilities, Community Health Network announced it will implement the measures starting Monday.
