Due to an increase in patients with flu-like symptoms, as well as the local presence of the seasonal flu virus and the H1N1 virus, BCH has opted to implement precautionary measures in order to protect hospital patients and employees.

BCH has implemented the following visitation restrictions:

• No visitors age 14 and under to any second floor nursing units.
• ALL those visiting patients should check in at the unit nurses’ station.
• ALL visitors to the hospital should be symptom-free of flu (No fever with cough or cold).
• If you are a parent/guardian and must be here with a patient – please report any flu symptoms to the receptionist in the lobby or at your nurses’ station.

BCH say they implement visitation restrictions with the utmost sensitivity and respect to patients and their families.

Hospital employees will work with patients on a case‐by‐case basis to ensure that patients receive the support needed to assist them throughout their stay.

BCH has committed a number of resources to protect patients and employees from respiratory infections, including the seasonal flu virus and the H1N1 virus. It has also purchased supplies and personal protective equipment such as respiratory masks, supplies for powered air purifying respiratory systems, and hand sanitizing stations to protect patients and employees from respiratory infections.

BCH is providing both seasonal and H1N1 flu vaccines to hospital staff.

“The action of restricting visitors exhibiting respiratory symptoms, including a fever or cough, and children under the age of fourteen is only a precautionary measure,” said Jodi Keller, Preparedness Coordinator for BCH. “Flu season is starting earlier this year and hospitals want to ensure they can keep patients and employees safe from respiratory infections, including the seasonal flu virus and H1N1 virus, in order to provide the highest quality of healthcare available in the area,” she said.