Banner Health will implement visitor restrictions at its hospitals by October 1st because of the current Enterovirus D68 outbreak. Restrictions will likely remain in place through the flu season, roughly the end of March.
The restrictions Banner Health asks community members to abide by include:
- Do not visit the hospital, as a visitor, if you have fever, cough, vomiting or diarrhea
- No visitors under the age of 13
- Siblings, who do not have cold and flu symptoms, may visit a new baby on the Obstetrics unit, but may be screened for illness by staff before being allowed to visit
- Children 12 and under must be supervised by an adult at all times in pubic waiting areas and cafeterias
- Please wash or sanitize your hands frequently while at the hospital
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website, symptoms of Enterovirus D68 may include fever, runny nose, sneezing, cough, and body and muscle aches. As of September 17th, a total of 140 people had been infected across 16 states.
Additionally, the CDC website states infants, children and teenagers have a higher risk of being infected with Enterovirus D68 because they have not built up immunity from previous exposures to these viruses. Children with asthma are at higher risk for severe illness.
To avoid becoming sick, the CDC recommends washing hands with soap and water frequently; avoiding contact with eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands; and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces, such as toys and doorknobs, especially if someone is sick.
