As winter illnesses increase, some hospitals and health care facilities are changing visitor policies.
In just three weeks, flu cases in Michigan increased from 570 per week to 2,706. In addition, RSV, or respiratory syncytial virus, has doubled from 271 to 550 cases.
That is according to the most recent report from the Michigan Disease Surveillance System. As a result, an increasing number of people become ill and seek medical treatment.
We now understand how important love and support are for healing while someone is in the hospital or receiving care. That is why hospitals only impose new restrictions when absolutely necessary.
The primary reason for these changes is to limit the spread of highly contagious viruses such as the flu and RSV, particularly in areas where at-risk populations are concentrated. Even a minor infection can be dangerous for immunocompromised patients, the elderly, or those suffering from chronic illnesses.
Hospitals can reduce the spread of illness and prevent outbreaks by taking precautions such as limiting the number of visitors, excluding children under the age of 12, and requesting that sick visitors stay at home. This also protects medical staff and ensures that critical resources such as intensive care unit beds are available during peak illness season.
I frequently wear a mask, especially when I see my patients. Masks are extremely useful when:
- There’s a lot of illness spreading in your area.
- You’ve recently been exposed to a virus, feel sic, or are recovering.
- You or someone around you is at high risk for severe illness.
Masks help because they act as a filter. They help you avoid inhaling infectious particles or germs from others. When you’re sick, a mask can help protect those around you.
It’s important to understand that not all masks are the same and provide varying levels of protection. Their effectiveness varies according to the type and size of the virus. Well-fitting masks, such as N95s or KN95s, offer the best protection. They are especially effective when worn correctly, covering your nose and mouth completely.
If you’re sick or have symptoms, I recommend staying at home rather than wearing a mask and going out. It’s the most effective way to protect others, particularly vulnerable family and friends.
If you need to visit a hospital, make sure to check the visitor policy ahead of time to avoid any surprises. Remember, simple precautions can help protect our hospitals and communities. Speaking of protection, it is not too late to get vaccinated.
Vaccines such as the flu shot and COVID-19 booster take approximately two weeks to take effect, so they can still help keep you safe this season.
