Southeastern Regional Medical Center, effective Thursday, October 1st, will limit visitors to immediate family over the age of 12.
Southeastern says it's beginning to see significant increases in the numbers of patients coming into the emergency department with flu-like symptoms. The emergency department is discouraging visitors except in extreme cases.
In a news release issued Wednesday, Emergency Services Director Susan Phelps said, "It is important for the public to understand that Emergency Services must first treat those who are severely injured or in need of immediate medical care. Unless someone with flu-like symptoms is at high risk for problems related to the flu, we suggest that they stay home and avoid contact with others as much as possible so that they do not spread the virus."
All emergency department visitors and patients will be required to wear masks and clean their hands upon entering the department to minimize the spread of the influenza virus.
