Hospitals implement stricter visitation rules as flu, RSV cases rise

GASTON COUNTY, N.C. — A significant rise in flu and RSV cases across the region is prompting increased restrictions on hospital visitations.

CaroMont

Restrictions will be implemented at CaroMont Regional Medical Centers in Gastonia, Belmont, and Mount Holly, starting Tuesday morning.

The health system says the guidelines were put in place to protect patients and will be upheld until cases of flu-like illnesses decrease.

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All visitors must be 13 or older and show no symptoms of respiratory illness, including flu, RSV, and COVID-19.

In addition to age and health requirements, CaroMont says visitors are required to comply with all infection control processes, follow directions from staff, and remain in designated areas at all times.

Exceptions to these visitation rules may be made for end-of-life circumstances, communication barriers, caregiver decision-making, and sibling visits to maternity units. These exceptions are made by the treating physician and facility leadership. If you’re seeking accommodations, speak to your loved one’s doctor before visiting the facility.

Patients with the flu went up from 2% to nearly 15%, Gaston County health officials said.

They are seeing a similar trend at CaroMont, according to Dr. Ward Adcock, vice president of Medical Affairs.

“The flu is most contagious in the first couple of days before you exhibit your symptoms,” Adcock said.

In the video at the top of this webpage, Channel 9’s Ken Lemon speaks with people in the community about the flu.

Atrium Health

Atrium Health will also temporarily tighten restrictions when it comes to visitors, starting Wednesday. Children 12 and under and anyone showing signs of a respiratory illness will not be allowed to visit.

Atrium Health asks all eligible visitors to wear masks in waiting areas and where care is provided.

Novant Health

Channel 9 also reached out to Novant Health. A spokesperson said the system does not have any active restrictions in place, but they are closely monitoring the spread of illnesses in their facilities and will make adjustments as necessary.

According to Atrium, the best ways to stay healthy and limit the spread of illness include:

Staying home when you are sick.
Getting vaccinated against flu, COVID-19 and RSV.
Washing hands, covering coughs and sneezes and avoiding close contact with others when sick

VIDEO: CaroMont Health opens new hospital in Belmont to address growing healthcare needs