Salem, Mass. (November 10, 2009) – Due to concerns surrounding the H1N1 virus, North Shore Medical Center (NSMC) has implemented new visitor guidelines for selected areas, including the emergency department, the pediatric inpatient unit, the Special Care Nursery, and the Birthplace. The guidelines were put into place to ensure the health and safety of patients and staff during flu season.

Based on recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Department of Public Health (DPH), the new guidelines require all visitors to these areas to complete a health screening questionnaire. Anyone who demonstrates symptoms of seasonal illness based on the health screening will be asked to refrain from visiting patients.

Other details of NSMC’s temporary visitor policy include:

• Visitors under the age of 18 will not be permitted in pediatrics areas or the Special Care Nursery.
• In the Birthplace, healthy siblings may visit with parental supervision.
• Visitors will be limited to two at the bedside in the Special Care Nursery, and no more than four at the bedside in pediatric areas or the Birthplace.

The H1N1 virus, also known as “swine flu,” is a contagious respiratory infection that can spread quickly from one person to another. It is most likely spread in the same way as the seasonal flu, which involves coughing, sneezing, or touching contaminated surfaces. Some of the common symptoms associated with H1N1 include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills, fatigue, and diarrhea. Symptoms typically appear three to five days after the virus has been contracted and can last for a week or more.

There are several measures that can be taken in order to prevent contracting the flu. One of the most important steps to take is to receive the flu vaccination. Make sure to cover the nose and mouth when sneezing to avoid spreading germs. Wash the hands frequently with soap and water and keep them away from the eyes, nose, and mouth. When possible, avoid contact with people that are experiencing flu symptoms. If you begin to feel ill, stay home from work or school to avoid infecting others. Stay out of work or school until you have been fever-free for 24 hours.