BRIEF: SSM Health changes visitor rules

Dec. 29--MT. VERNON -- SSM Health Good Samaritan Hospital in Mt. Vernon has temporarily changed its visitation rules in response to widespread flu activity in the area.

Until further notice, people suffering from flu-like symptoms, including high fever plus cough and/or sore throat, are asked not to visit patients until they have recovered from their symptoms, states an SSM news release.

In addition, a maximum of two visitors per patient will be allowed and no visitors under the age of 18 will be permitted.

The rules are in accordance with the Illinois Department of Public Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the release states. The rules are also in place at SSM Health St. Mary's Hospital in Centralia.

Open visitation will resume as soon as health officials determine the flu threat has abated, the release states.

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