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Seasonal Illnesses Spur Visitor Changes

2/28/2020

In accordance with latest CDC guidelines, Cape Fear Valley Health is implementing additional visitor restrictions to prevent the spread of flu and other respiratory illnesses.

Beginning Monday, March 2, patients under isolation precautions will be allowed just one visitor. These patients are identified by signage and a blue bag on the door containing personal protective equipment (PPE).

While we are not implementing restrictions at this time for any other patients, Cape Fear Valley Health strongly recommends that all patients limit the number of visitors during their stay to reduce everyone’s chances of getting sick.

Patients and visitors are also urged to use alcohol-based hand sanitizer or throroughly wash their hands with soap and water for 20 seconds to prevent the spread of germs and disease. Hospital staff can instruct visitors on proper handwashing hygiene or they can visit https://www.cdc.gov/handwashing/

The precautionary changes are being implemented due to growing concerns over SARS-CoV-2 (the virus that causes COVID-19) commonly known as coronavirus. Common symptoms include cough, fever and shortness of breath.

There have been no confirmed cases of SARS-CoV-2 (the virus that causes COVID-19) in North Carolina.

People experiencing symptoms such as fever, cough or shortness of breath and have visited China, Iran, Italy, Japan or South Korea within the past 14 days should call ahead before visiting their doctor, emergency department or urgent care.

When calling, they should thoroughly describe both their symptoms and also their recent travel history.

The North Carolina Division of Public Health has established a hotline to address general questions about SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. The number is 1-866-462-3821.

Cape Fear Valley Health will continue to monitor and follow state and national advisories about all seasonal illnesses. To learn more about the coronavirus, visit https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html.

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