Vidant Health has raised visitation restrictions at the system’s hospital across eastern North Carolina, including The Outer Banks Hospital in Nags Head, as part of their response to the growing COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic.
Earlier this year, Vidant placed limits on children under the age of 12 visiting patients at their facilities due to concerns over the spread of the flu.
Effective immediately, only immediate family members over the age of 16 and not exhibiting any symptoms of illness may visit a Vidant hospital. The restrictions apply to all areas of the hospitals, not just patient areas.
Family and visitors of any age are advised not come to the hospital to visit others if they have symptoms of a cold or flu, fever, diarrhea, vomiting or headaches.
Similar restrictions have been put in place at Sentara Health facilities, including Sentara Albemarle Medical Center in Elizabeth City.
“This precaution will help limit the spread of infections while protecting hospital patients, their loved ones and Vidant team members,” the company said in a statement. “These limitations are temporary and will be lifted as soon as safely possible.”
Vidant has also suspended all group education classes and events. If you have questions about a class or event you are registered for, call 855-MyVidant.
This is a rapidly developing situation and Vidant officials continue to closely monitor the spread of COVID-19. For the latest information on COVID-19, to include confirmed cases in North Carolina, please visit ncdhhs.gov/coronavirus, cdc.gov/coronavirus or VidantHealth.com/covid-19.
