The Children's Hospital of Wisconsin will temporarily not allow children visitors under the age of 12 into parts of the hospital to help stop the spread the flu virus.
The hospital announced Monday in a news release the policy would go into effect Wednesday for the inpatient area. The policy does not include clinic appointment or Emergency Department visits.
“To help prevent the spread of the influenza virus and other viral illnesses, and to protect the health of our patients, families and staff, Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin is implementing an annual temporary visitor restriction at both our Milwaukee and Fox Valley hospitals (as well as the Surgicenter),” said Mike Gutzeit, MD, Chief Medical Officer in a statement.
The policy only applies to visitors. Families with children under 12 can still seek medical attention.
The restriction will be in place for an undetermined amount of time. The hospital said it will provide updates on its website.
The hospital also encouraged families to get the flu shot if they have not already.
“Getting the vaccine is still one of the best ways to prevent the illness and reduce its severity. It’s also important to wash hands regularly and thoroughly, and stay home if showing any flu symptoms,” Gutzeit said in a statement.
