Baystate hospitals changing visitor policy amid flu concerns

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - As the number of flu cases has risen in Massachusetts, Baystate Health has announced that they are changing their visitor's policy.

Starting immediately, the hospital system is not allowing visitors under the age of 14.

They're also asking visitors who have been exposed to the flu at home, or who have flu-like symptoms to stay away. Click here for an interactive feature explaining the difference between cold and flu symptoms.

Additionally, they are recommending no more than two visitors at a time per patient.

They have released these recommendations for waiting rooms of doctor’s offices and other outpatient settings:

• Patients should come to appointments alone or be accompanied by no more than one other person, if needed.
• Patients are discouraged from bringing children to their appointments with them.

Baystate also wants people to take precautions prior to their visit, such as getting a flu shot, washing your hands upon entering and leaving the patient's room, and assessing your health prior to visiting the hospital.

The policy change applies to Baystate Medical Center in Springfield, Baystate Franklin Medical Center in Greenfield, Baystate Mary Lane Hospital in Ware, and at outpatient facilities in the Baystate Health system.