Hospital puts restrictions on visitors

WESTFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - As flu fears continue to heighten, hospitals are keeping a close eye on who comes in an out.

New visitor regulations at Noble Hospital in Westfield came as a surprise to some hoping to visit loved ones.

Marcos Cartahena told 22News, “It's understandable you know a lot of people are getting sick lately it's one of those things we have to obey the rules even if we don't like them."

Cartahena's wife had been in the hospital for a couple of days but as of Saturday, his 15-year-old daughter was no longer allowed to be by her side.

She told 22News, “I guess it's ok, I don't want to get my mom sick and if I get sick and she comes home, she just gets sick again."

As part of an effort to curb the spread of swine flu, the hospital banned children under 18 years of age from visiting patients.

Visitors with flu symptoms such as a fever, cough or sore throat must also stay away.

For patients who are hospitalized with the flu, only two visitors will be allowed at any one time.

Todd Lever, the Hospital's V-P or Marketing told 22News they will grant exceptions only if it is necessary for the health and well-being of a patient.

"We understand family support is one of the prime things that people need when they're not healthy but we think this is the best thing for the community at this point in time," Lever said.

The restrictions will be lifted when the flu cases subside

All three local hospitals in the Baystate Medical system have enacted similar rules, they, however are only banning children under the age of 13.