December 20, 2023 – DMH Memorial Health and HSHS St. Marys are implementing temporary visitor restrictions to curb the spread of respiratory illnesses.
The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) recommended temporary visitor restrictions due to a statewide increase in respiratory illness including COVID-19, influenza and RSV.
For DMH Memorial Health, hospital visits are limited to two visitors per patient at one time, and all visitors be 18 years of age or older and show no signs of illness. Masks are encouraged, but not required at this time. Disposable masks will be available for visitors upon entry.
HSHS St. Marys is also limiting visitors to two people at a time. In addition, they advise that visitors should not have a cold or any flu-like symptoms including, fever or chills, sore throat, body or muscle aches, headache, cough, or runny nose. Visitors should also be over 18.
To help prevent the spread of respiratory illnesses, people should cover their mouth, especially when coughing or sneezing; wash hands frequently; receive all recommended vaccinations; and wear a mask around others.
Most people who suffer from respiratory illness recover completely in one to two weeks, but some people develop serious and potentially life-threatening medical complications, according to the IDPH.
For additional information about respiratory illnesses, including symptoms and prevention, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website at cdc.gov.
