ASHEVILLE – Due to high influenza rates in the Western North Carolina region, all Mission Health hospitals and affiliates are implementing temporary visitation restrictions starting Dec. 31.
To protect its most vulnerable patients, the hospital system will temporarily limit visitors to two per patient and only allow visitors 13 and older, according to a Dec. 30 news release. Exceptions to the restrictions will be considered in cases such as terminally ill or pediatric patients.
This precaution is in place at all Mission Health hospitals, including Mission Hospital in Asheville, CarePartners in Asheville, McDowell Mission Hospital in Marion, Transylvania Regional Hospital in Brevard, Blue Ridge Regional Hospital in Spruce Pine, Angel Medical Center in Franklin, and Highlands Cashiers Hospital in Highland.
Reports of flu-like illness are increasing across North Carolina. Influenza-like illness activity in the state is at more than 6%, and community transmission is increasing, according to the North Carolina Department of Public Health. Visitor restrictions will remain in place until reported influenza-like activity decreases.
“While we understand that these restrictions may pose challenges for some, our primary concern is the health and safety of all of our patients and the community at large, and we will only implement restrictions when absolutely necessary,” the release states.
Its mission is to encourage local residents who are sick with flu symptoms to stay home and maintain good respiratory etiquette, such as covering coughs and sneezes and washing hands. If your symptoms worsen, seek medical attention.
If you or a loved one need help deciding whether to go to the ER or go to urgent care or a walk-in clinic like Mission My Care Now, Mission offers a toll-free nurse consultation line at 844-706-8773. This is a free service that helps you understand your symptoms and learn about treatment options.
People who have not yet received the influenza vaccine are urged to do so now, the statement said. All Mission Health hospitals have hand sanitizing stations at hospital entrances and throughout the building.
The announcement comes after AdventHealth Hendersonville and UNC Health Pardee in Hendersonville announced similar temporary restrictions on patient visitation on Dec. 29 and Dec. 30, respectively.
