(1/13/2014)  While there are no hospital restrictions on visitation, except for what is required in critical care areas, the Centers for Disease Control and the Department of Epidemiology for McLeod Health advise guests to limit patient visitation at a hospital unless it is absolutely necessary.

For the protection of both our patients and guests, if you experience flu-like symptoms contact your physician immediately and avoid exposure to others by visiting patients in the hospital.

Seasonal flu signs and symptoms include fever, cough, body aches, chills, fatigue, runny or stuffy nose, headache, sore throat, vomiting, and sometimes diarrhea.

Steps you can take to protect your health include:

Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze and throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze (alcohol-based hand sanitizers are also effective).Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth to prevent the spread of germs.Try to avoid close contact with those who are sick.

The best advice is to be prepared. Stocking your home in advance with a supply of over-the-counter medicines, alcohol-based hand sanitizers, tissues and other related items can help you avoid the need to make trips out in public while you are sick and contagious.

The McLeod Health Team is aware that the current situation with influenza started late, but has evolved quickly. Plans for managing patient volumes, treatment processes, procedures and staffing are a constant priority.