DURHAM, N.C. — Duke University Health System hospitals will temporarily restrict patient visitations due to the rising cases of influenza expected throughout the holiday season.

• Restriction take effect at noon on Friday, December 20
• Restrictions are temporary and will be reviewed as the state’s influenza outbreak abates
• Restrictions are part of a multi-step approach to protect patients and prevent the spread of influenza at Duke University Health System facilities

The restrictions will take effect at noon on Friday, December 20. Ambulatory surgery centers and clinics will also be included.

Under the restrictions, officials say visitors to hospital and ambulatory surgery patients will be limitied to no more than two visitors at a time. Visitors should also have no fever, cough, or other flu-like symptoms unless they are seeking medical care.

According to a release from the Duke University Health System, "The restrictions are part of a multi-step approach to protect patients and prevent the spread of influenza at Duke University Hospital, Duke Regional and Duke Raleigh hospitals, as well all Duke Health ambulatory facilities, including the Duke Ambulatory Surgery Center and the James E. Davis Ambulatory Surgical Center."

The following guidelines also apply under the temporary restrictions:

• Patients may receive no more than two adult visitors at one time. 
• Children under age 12 are not permitted to visit hospitals or wards without prior approval from health care providers and for special circumstances. This is a change from previous years, when restrictions applied to children under the age of 18.
• Visitors are urged to perform hand washing frequently, including when entering and leaving the building. Hand hygiene stations are available throughout the buildings and are effective against influenza virus. 
• Visitors with fever, cough, or other flu-like symptoms should remain home.

Restrictions are temporary and will be reviewed as the state’s influenza outbreak abates.