Temporary Visitor Restrictions in Effect for Memorial Health Hospitals to Help Prevent Spread of Respiratory Illnesses

 

[December 19, 2023] 

Memorial Health is implementing temporary visitor restrictions at its five hospitals to curb the spread of respiratory illnesses.

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) recommended temporary visitor restrictions due to a statewide increase in respiratory illness including COVID-19, influenza and RSV. The restrictions apply to inpatient units at all five Memorial Health hospitals: Decatur Memorial Hospital, Jacksonville Memorial Hospital, Lincoln Memorial Hospital, Springfield Memorial Hospital and Taylorville Memorial Hospital. The restrictions will not apply to outpatient Memorial Care locations, including urgent or primary care and laboratory or imaging appointments.

For the safety of patients and their families as well as Memorial Health colleagues, Memorial Health requires that hospital visits be limited to two visitors per patient at one time, and that all visitors be 18 years of age or older and show no signs of illness. Masks are encouraged but not required at this time. Disposable masks will be available for visitors upon entry.

To help prevent the spread of respiratory illnesses, people should cover their mouth, especially when coughing or sneezing; wash hands frequently; receive all recommended vaccinations; and wear a mask around others.

Most people who suffer from respiratory illness recover completely in one to two weeks, but some people develop serious and potentially life-threatening medical complications, according to the IDPH.

For additional information about respiratory illnesses, including symptoms and prevention, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website at cdc.gov.

[Anne Davis]