Temporary visitor restrictions will be in place at Phoenix Children’s Hospital beginning Saturday, Dec. 17, because of an increase in respiratory viruses seen around the community.
Respiratory-virus season restrictions mean visitors must be at least 12 years old to visit with patients who are hospitalized.
Visitation restrictions apply to all patient-care areas. Other area hospitals have implemented restrictions as well, so check first before taking young children to visit a sibling, other relative or friend.
PCH hospital officials say that even simple colds can be life-threatening for hospitalized children who may have other serious health problems. Young children are not as careful with hand-washing and other measures that help prevent the spread of infections.
All visitors must be free from respiratory symptoms before visiting hospitalized patients. These restrictions only apply to visitors, not to Phoenix Children’s patients presenting in the Emergency Department or patients seeking medical care.
Symptoms of respiratory virus may include fever, coughing, labored breathing, wheezing, and nasal congestion. Respiratory viruses are the leading cause of lower respiratory tract disease in young children and the leading cause of death among low-birth-weight babies.
http://www.raisingarizonakids.com/2016/07/flu-shot-spray/
