Because of the spread of swine flu in Connecticut, hospitals across the state have begun putting limits on visits by children to see loved ones who are hospitalized.
Hartford Hospital and Saint Francis Hospital and Medical Center are limiting the numbers of visitors as well; no patient may have more than two visitors at a time.
Hartford Hospital Director of Infectious Diseases Jack Ross says it is an effort to keep H-1-N-1 out of the hospital. At Hartford Hospital, people under 18 are only allowed to visit seriously ill patients on a case-by-case basis. Doctors say children are more likely to have swine flu, and are more likely to spread the illness.
Here are the guidelines issued by the two hospitals:
• All children younger than 18 years of age refrain from visiting both inpatient and outpatient areas during this peak influenza season.
• Any persons who are ill should refrain from visiting the hospital.
• Visitors observe proper hand hygiene and respiratory etiquette.
• No more than 2 visitors at a time for each patient.
• Encourage visitors to follow all posted isolation guidelines.
▪ Signs have been posted throughout the facility informing visitors of these restrictions.
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