Mayo Clinic Lifts Hospital Visitation Restrictions Effective December 4

Wednesday, December 02, 2009

ROCHESTER, Minn. — Mayo Clinic has seen a decrease in patients presenting with influenza-like illness and hospital admissions with flu. As a result, Mayo has lifted the temporary restrictions on hospital visitation, effective Friday, Dec. 4.

Though numbers have decreased, Mayo encourages patients, visitors and staff to "Think Flu" by continuing to practice respiratory etiquette and hand hygiene. Since seasonal influenza cases will start occurring by the end of December, Mayo staff will:

• Restrict visitors who are coughing, sneezing, have a runny nose, fever, or sore throat
• Promote hand hygiene — all visitors must clean their hands before and after visiting with hand sanitizer or soap and water.

Mayo encourages all patients who are eligible for H1N1 vaccine to be vaccinated. H1N1 is still a threat in the community and the best way to protect yourself and your family is by getting vaccinated. Please go to MayoClinic.org for the latest information on H1N1 vaccinations at Mayo Clinic.

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About Mayo Clinic

Mayo Clinic is a nonprofit worldwide leader in medical care, research and education for people from all walks of life. For more information, visit MayoClinic.com or MayoClinic.org/news.