GASTONIA, N.C. — As respiratory viruses continue to cause concern, both CaroMont Health and Iredell Health System are following the same precautions as other health systems in the Carolinas.
CaroMont Health started restricting visitors under age 13 on Thursday. This also included visitors to The Birthplace at CaroMont Health.
Iredell Health’s Memorial Hospital has also announced no visitors under age 14 starting Thursday. The Birth Place at Iredell Memorial Hospital will allow siblings under age 14 as long as they wear a mask.
There are some exceptions, like visiting a family member receiving end-of-life care.
“Restrictions like this are necessary to help protect our patients as well as our staff and visitors,” Pam Gill, the director of infection prevention for Iredell Health System, said. “We also encourage all visitors to use the masks, hand sanitizer and tissues available at public entrances of Iredell Memorial.”
Vaccination continues to be urged as the best defense against respiratory illnesses — as well as staying home when sick, washing hands and covering the nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing.
“For whatever reason, too many people choose not to get the flu shot,” Gill said. “They may be afraid it may make them sick or heard of someone who had a bad experience. Yet, the evidence shows that the flu shot is the best tool we have to slow and prevent the spread of the virus.”
Hospital visitor restrictions are still in place for Atrium Health and Novant Health.
Health officials also say anyone feeling sick should avoid visiting hospital patients.
The restrictions are temporary while doctors continue to treat a growing amount of patients for COVID-19, RSV and the flu.
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