science environment

Hospital System Says Flu Season Has Started

By Kristian Foden-Vencil (OPB)
Portland, Oregon Jan. 28, 2016 9:44 p.m.

Providence Health is putting restrictions on visitors at eight Portland area hospitals after an increase in flu activity.

THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR:
Providence says flu season has started in earnest.

Providence says flu season has started in earnest.

South Texas U.S. Dept. of Veteran's Affairs

The company’s local chief of medicine, Scott Marsal, said they constantly monitor patients with flu-like symptoms, and activity is increasing.

“We’re asking that for patients hospitalized in our acute care hospitals, that they not have more than two visitors at any one time," he said.

"The aim there is to try and decrease the flow of folks from the community through our  facilities where we’re forever focused on trying to protect and maximize the safety of all of our most vulnerable patients," said Marsal.

The hospitals are also asking visitors be at least 18 years of age and not suffering from flu-like symptoms such as fever, sore throat or cough.

The Oregon Health Authority’s latest report said flu cases are increasing, but there’s still only minimal activity.

THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR:
THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR:
THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR: