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Patient Visiting Restricted at Great River Medical Center

  • Category: News
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Increasing Flu Cases in Southeast Iowa Reason for a Temporary Change

West Burlington, Iowa, March 5, 2019 – To protect patients, Great River Medical Center is limiting visitors until flu season ends. Influenza is a contagious respiratory illness caused by flu viruses. It can cause mild to severe illness, and it can lead to death.

General visiting

People who are 14 or younger are not allowed to visit because they are at high risk for getting and spreading influenza. People can infect others with the flu about 24 hours before they have symptoms. If you have been exposed to someone with the flu or if you have flu symptoms, don’t visit patients.

Symptoms include:

  • Body aches
  • Cough or sore throat
  • Diarrhea or vomiting
  • Fever or chills
  • Headache
  • Runny nose
  • Tiredness

Emergency Department

Visiting is limited to one adult. Patients who have flu-like symptoms will be asked to wear masks to protect others in treatment and waiting areas.

Obstetrics Unit

Only spouses or partners, grandparents and healthy siblings of the baby may visit. Siblings must be free from flu symptoms for 48 hours before visiting.

Pediatrics Unit (patients under 18)

Only parents and grandparents can visit.