Union Hospital Enforces Visitation Restrictions

Effective immediately, Union Health has implemented flu restrictions for Union Hospital and Union Hospital Clinton. This important step has been initiated in order to reduce the spread of flu while protecting patients, their families and our staff.
Until further notice, visitors will be limited to only two designated adults for the patient during their hospital stay. Please note, the two adult visitors are to remain the same for the duration of the patient’s hospital stay.
What is influenza?
Flu is an illness caused by influenza viruses that infect the respiratory tract. Symptoms typically start one to four days after being around someone who is sick and can last two to seven days.
Symptoms usually include:
–Fever
–Chills
–Headache
–Cough
–Sore throat
–Muscle aches
–Diarrhea and nausea occasionally in children
Complications may include pneumonia, hospitalization and even death. Every year approximately 30,000 to 49,000 people in the United States die from the effects of this disease every year.
How is influenza spread?
Influenza is spread from close contact with persons who are already infected, all well as from touching surfaces or objects that have been contaminated with influenza viruses.
A PERSON CAN SPREAD THE FLU 24 HOURS BEFORE THEY HAVE ANY SIGNS OR SYMPTOMS
–People can be contagious and spread the illness three to four days after they become sick
–You can spread the virus 1 day BEFORE you have symptoms
–Children and people with weak immune systems might be contagious longer
That means that you may be able to spread the flu to someone else before you even know you are sick, as well as while you are sick.
How can influenza be prevented?
–Get your flu shot
–Wash your hands
–Cover your mouth if you cough or sneeze (use your elbow or upper arm, not your hands)
–Throw away used tissues
–Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth
–Avoid contact with sick people
–Remain at home if you become sick