Allen County hospitals are lifting visitor restrictions, effective immediately. The restrictions were implemented in January as a precaution to the spread of influenza.
For the safety of patients and staff over the last 10 weeks, hospitals have been limiting visitors to two per patient at one time and only visitors who are at least 18 years of age.
For the first time this season, flu cases are on the decline and are now at a regular level. As a result, the restrictions are no longer necessary, although local hospitals will continue to reserve the right to maintain temporary visitor restrictions in some high-risk areas or on a case-by-case basis.
In a press release Dr. Deborah McMahan, Allen County Health Commissioner said:
“We appreciate everyone’s patience and understanding while these temporary restrictions were in place,” says Dr. McMahan. “While it was a sacrifice for both patients and hospital staff, we believe these efforts helped to reduce transmission of respiratory illnesses during a period of heightened flu activity.”
