LANGLEY AIR FORCE BASE, Va. –
Effective immediately, in effort to protect our patients from the spread of H1N1 and influenza, no more than two healthy visitors may enter a patient's room at any time during visiting hours. Visitors are limited to 18 years or older, including siblings of newborns.
Furthermore, we request individuals experiencing any symptoms of flu-like illness, such as fever, cough, congestion, body aches, sore throat, vomiting or diarrhea, to refrain from entering the inpatient units.
According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, influenza is thought to spread mainly person-to-person through coughing or sneezing of infected people. It can also be spread through touching contaminated surfaces. The virus can be contracted up to 24 hours before symptoms of illness are displayed. Pregnant women, adolescents and young children, especially children younger than 2 years old, are at greater risk of developing serious complications from this flu.
Langley Hospital will reevaluate this guidance after the flu season. Please plan accordingly for child care. We understand this may cause an inconvenience for some families; however, these measures are with good intentions for the health and well-being of our patients.
We appreciate your cooperation during flu season.