Several hospitals in the Triangle will begin restricting visitors on January 6 to reduce the spread of respiratory illnesses such as influenza, RSV, and COVID-19. Duke Health and UNC Health will limit visitors to those 12 years old or older, with some exceptions.
Duke Health will allow no more than two visitors per patient at a time, while UNC Health has a daytime visitor policy without limits but requires one visitor in most inpatient areas between 9 pm and 6 am. People showing cold or flu symptoms are asked to avoid visiting hospitals and clinics.
State health officials report an increase in respiratory sicknesses since late December, with a 50% rise in flu-like illnesses among emergency department patients during the week ending Dec. 28. The state has seen five flu-related deaths so far this season, bringing the total to 12.
Visitors are encouraged to check restrictions before arriving at each hospital, as they vary slightly across health systems.
Source: https://www.newsobserver.com/news/local/article298006998.html