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Houston Healthcare Limiting Visitors to 17 Years or Older During Flu Season

Houston Healthcare Limiting Visitors

Along with the onset of seasonal flu, the H1N1 influenza virus is circulating in the Middle Georgia community; however, unlike the seasonal flu, the H1N1 virus is primarily affecting children and young adults. Because of this, local healthcare facilities, including Houston Healthcare, Coliseum Medical Centers, Coliseum Northside, and The Medical Center of Central Georgia, have modified visitation policies at each of their facilities.

“For the protection of our patients, staff and the community, we are asking for your support,” states Melinda Hartley, MSN, RN, NE-BC, Chief Nursing Officer for Houston Healthcare. “Because this flu season is more active than in past years, we feel this is a crucial and necessary step in caring for our community and each other.”

At the recommendation of both the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the North Central Health District, Houston Healthcare is restricting visitors at Houston Medical Center and Perry Hospital to individuals 17 years of age and older. In addition, any visitor who has flu-like symptoms will not be allowed to visit patients at either facility.

“These precautionary measures are being taken to limit the risk of potential flu exposure to our patients, visitors and hospital staff,” continues Hartley. “In extenuating circumstances, exceptions may be allowed on the age restriction policy, but these will be determined on a case-by-case basis.” 

This restriction is encouraged by the CDC because most cases of flu-like illness with symptoms such as fever with cough or sore throat, body aches, headache, chills, nausea or vomiting, are occurring in children and young adults ages zero to 16. These age groups are also more likely to contract and spread the H1N1 flu virus, and are more likely to be hospitalized due to complications resulting from the virus.

“As our community, we want to thank you for your support and cooperation during this time,” adds Hartley. “As a health care system, one of our main concerns is ensuring the health of our patients, staff, physicians, volunteers and our community. We feel this restriction is necessary for us to continue to provide safe, quality patient care in our facilities for those in our community.”

How Do I Know I Have the Flu?

You or your child may have the flu if you have the following symptoms:

  • Became sick very quickly
  • A high fever (102 degrees or higher)
  • Stuffy nose
  • Headache
  • Muscle aches
  • Feel very tired or achy
  • Do not feel like eating
  • Chills
  • Have a dry cough
  • Nausea, vomiting or diarrhea are more common in children than adults
  • Usually children with the flu do not have a sore throat
  • Sinus problems and ear infections may develop