Nov 3, 2009 8:47 am US/Eastern
More Mass. Hospitals Ban Kid Visits Amid Flu
BOSTON (WBZ) ―
In a trend that is becoming the norm across the country, a number of Massachusetts hospitals are now banning children from visiting sick relatives and friends. The precautions are in response to the spread of H1N1 flu, which so far has proven
more prevalent in children and teenagers.
At
Children's Hospital Boston, where children are the patients, siblings under the age of 18 are not being allowed in for visits. The hospital is also limiting visits to family members only, meaning no friends of any age.
"Visits to inpatient areas will be restricted to parents, guardians, grandparents and siblings over 18," a statement on Children's web site reads. "These measures are vital to ensuring the health and safety of our patients, families and staff."
More Info: Mass. DPH H1N1 Updates
More Info: Find Mass. Flu Clinics
At
Lahey Clinic in Burlington similar rules were put into effect Monday. If you are under 18 you are not allowed into the hospital, unless you are seeking medical care yourself.
"With H1N1 flu being declared a national emergency, Lahey Clinic, like other hospitals around the country, has decided to limit visitors," a hospital statement said. "This policy is a temporary measure that will likely be in effect for the duration of flu season."
Children's and Lahey are not alone. One by one, that state's hospitals are setting their own flu season rules. Sturdy Memorial Hospital in Attleboro set restrictions on Monday. Last month the entire Southcoast Hospital Group, including Charlton Memorial in Fall River, St. Luke's in New Bedford, and Tobey Hospital in Wareham,
banned visitors under the age of 18.
As flu season progresses, more hospitals are likely to set similar policies. Before visiting a loved one,
be sure to check their latest visitor policies.
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