Visitor Restrictions Coming to South Carolina Hospitals Amid Flu Surge

News Summary

South Carolina is experiencing a significant flu surge, prompting hospitals like Prisma Health and Bon Secours St. Francis to impose visitor restrictions starting January 15. These measures aim to protect patients, particularly vulnerable populations, from the spread of influenza, which has seen over 10,000 confirmed cases in the state. While children under 16 are restricted from visiting, other health facilities like Self Regional Medical Center encourage flu vaccinations and hygiene practices to mitigate infection risks. The broader public is urged to remain vigilant as flu season remains active.

Visitor Restrictions Coming to South Carolina Hospitals Amid Flu Surge

As folks in South Carolina stoop over their soup and clutch tissues, it’s important to note that the flu season is hitting hard this year. As of January 11, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has deemed South Carolina as being at high risk for acute respiratory illness (ARI). This means that if you haven’t caught your flu shot yet, now’s the time to consider doing so!

The Numbers Don’t Lie

By January 11, a staggering 10,590 lab-confirmed flu tests were reported across the state. The state is living through an increase in flu cases alongside other annoying respiratory illnesses. Hospitals across the area are feeling the pressure, and as a precautionary measure, two major Greenville-area hospital systems will be limiting visitors starting January 15. Both Prisma Health and Bon Secours St. Francis have decided it’s better to be safe than sorry when it comes to patient health.

Visitor Restrictions Explained

The new visitation rules will specifically affect children under age 16. While it’s hard to keep little ones from seeing their loved ones, the hospitals believe this restriction will help reduce the potential spread of the flu among vulnerable patients. It’s worth noting, however, that Self Regional Medical Center is not planning on imposing similar visitation limitations at this time.

Why These Steps?

The decision for visitor restrictions comes on the heels of a notable increase in influenza cases and respiratory illnesses in the local community. South Carolina has been reporting high levels of flu activity, making it one of the states with the highest rates in the U.S. This season has seen 1,047 influenza-associated hospitalizations reported statewide, with 356 of those hospitalizations occurring in the week ending January 4.

According to the latest Flu Watch Report by the South Carolina Department of Health, there is also an uptick in patients visiting healthcare providers for flu-like symptoms, with the percentage sitting at 8.2%, significantly higher than the state’s baseline of 3.2%.

Take Precautions

The Bigger Picture

5.3 million illnesses, over 63,000 hospitalizations, and approximately 2,700 deaths. Among those lost was a heartbreaking total of 11 children. This flu season typically kicks off in October, with its peak activity lasting through to February, which means we might still be in for a rocky ride.

Staying Safe

As South Carolina continues to grapple with this widespread illness, the public is urged to remain vigilant. Let’s work together to beat this flu season!