As fall approaches, we need to remember that it is the beginning of respiratory virus season. This includes viruses such as influenza A and B, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and the common cold. These common viruses in our communities can cause very serious illnesses to those who are already sick, especially among children.

Here at Pitt County Memorial Hospital, we owe it to our patients, families, visitors and employees to do all we can to limit the spread of infections. This is why we are temporarily limiting visitation in the PCMH Neonatal Intensive Care Unit and the Convalescent Newborn Nursery within Children’s Hospital to members of immediate family only. This includes parents or primary care givers and siblings. At this time, siblings must be 13 years old or older to visit. In our neonatal intensive care unit, we are asking that only parents visit. We know this is disappointing to those other family members or friends who want to see the newborn baby or visit a loved one. However, we feel this is a necessary step to protect our youngest patients from respiratory viruses that cause them to become seriously ill.

We also ask you to be proactive at home and out in the community to prevent infections. Some tips for preventing the spread of viruses include: Wash your hands frequently; keep your children home from school when they are sick; do not share cups or utensils. One other way to prevent the spread of illnesses is to keep your hands away from your face. Just rubbing your eye and touching a child can spread your virus to that child.

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