As public concerns grow over the spread of the flu and COVID-19, otherwise known as the Wuhan Coronavirus, Helen Keller Hospital and Red Bay Hospital have updated their visitation policies to help reduce the risks for patients, staff and visitors.
In a statement released Friday, March 6, officials with Helen Keller Hospital stated that, beginning immediately, Helen Keller and Red Bay Hospitals will temporarily limit the number of visitors allowed in patient rooms and suspend student job shadowing programs.
Effective immediately, no more than two visitors at a time will be allowed in patient rooms at Helen Keller and Red Bay Hospital.
The hospital system urged those who have a fever, cough, body aches or sore throat to not visit the hospital or hospital-affiliated clinics unless they are seeking health care.
In addition, the hospitals ask that children under 16 not visit patients, even when accompanied by adults. Exceptions will be made for extraordinary circumstances.
Finally, each visitor is required to sanitize his or her hands when entering the hospital, and when entering and exiting patient rooms.
For the most up to date coronavirus information and resources, call the Alabama Department of Public Health at (334) 206-5347 or visit alabamapublichealth.gov/infectiousdiseases/2019-coronavirus.html.
