In an effort to protect its patients and associates, and limit the spread of enterovirus D-68 (EV-D68), St.Vincent is implementing the following visitor restrictions effective immediately:
Individuals younger than 16 years of age are restricted from visiting:
- St.Vincent Anderson Regional Hospital
- St.Vincent Mercy Hospital
Individuals younger than 18 years of age are restricted from visiting:
- Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital at St.Vincent
- St.Vincent Carmel Hospital – Neonatal Intensive Care Unit only
- St.Vincent Frankfort Hospital – Labor/Delivery Unit only
- St.Vincent Women’s Hospital – Neonatal Intensive Care Unit only
Enteroviruses are very common viruses, and are responsible for 10 to 15 million infections in the United States each year in all age groups. From mid-August to September 11, 2014, a total of 82 people in six states were confirmed to have respiratory illness caused by EV-D68. However, many states have reported increases in respiratory illnesses over the last few weeks.
“Infants, children and teenagers are at the highest risk for infection because they do not yet have immunity from previous exposures to these types of viruses,” said Dr. Christopher Belcher, medical director of pediatric infectious disease at Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital at St.Vincent. “The safety of our patients is our first priority. By temporarily restricting visitors, we can help to limit the spread and risk of respiratory illnesses to those most at risk.”
St.Vincent officials are working with the Indiana State Department of Health (ISDH) to monitor for cases of EV-D68 and the CDC is assisting with testing.
EV-D68 is thought to spread from person to person when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or touches contaminated surfaces. Patients with respiratory illness and having difficulty breathing should seek care from a medical professional.
To protect against respiratory illnesses, follow these steps:
- Wash hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds, especially after changing diapers.
- Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Avoid kissing, hugging, and sharing cups or eating utensils with people who are sick.
- Disinfect frequently touched surfaces, such as toys and doorknobs, especially if someone is sick.
