Saint Joseph-London announces that, effective immediately, hospitalized patient visitors will be limited to those 18 years of age or older. Seasonal flu and H1N1 is becoming more prevalent in our area and this step is meant to safeguard patients, hospital staff and the community. The 18 years and younger group (school age) is at the highest risk due to the amount of potential exposure they have from other children.
Proper hand washing is highly effective in preventing the spread of flu. Remember to cover your coughs and sneezes - either with a tissue or your shirt sleeve at the elbow. Between hand washing, the use of alcohol gel products is recommended. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth. Germs are spread this way. Try and limit your exposure to public areas with confined spaces. If you have flu symptoms, stay home except to seek medical attention.
In addition, Saint Joseph-London will not be offering the service of x-raying Trick or Treat candy as in years past. At this time the risk of spreading germs by having the influx of visitors into the hospital and Radiology testing areas is too great.
"We trust that patients and visitors understand our concern in taking this position. It is our goal to provide the best and safest patient care possible, while protecting our staff and the community. We will continue to evaluate this and other visitation guidelines as the seasonal and H1N1 flu progresses." - Sharon Hershberger, Public Affairs Director.
