Local hospitals taking precautions amid coronavirus concerns

HENRY/WASHINGTON COUNTIES - With the coronavirus raising health concerns across the globe, local hospitals are taking precautionary measures to keep patients, visitors and employees healthy.

The Washington County Hospital and Clinics (WCHC) announced Wednesday morning it would implement visitor restriction at both the hospital and McCreedy Home, according to a news release. Any individuals with flu-like symptoms, such as a cough, fever or sore throat are asked to not visit.

Additionally, visitors will only be permitted if they are immediate family or over the age of 18, according to the release. Anyone with flu-like symptoms is required to postpone the planned visit until they have been symptom free for more than 24 hours.

'For those individuals experiencing cough, fever, or shortness of breath and that have recently traveled or had contact with an individual confirmed to have Novel Coronavirus 2019 WCHC advises to call ahead first before presenting to the clinic or emergency room. Specific protocols are in place to identify and evaluate patients who may have contracted the new coronavirus. If you feel sick, do not panic, the flu or cold still is the most likely cause. Patients should contact their local clinic provider office for advice. A triage nurse will ask a number of questions to assist in determining the best approach for the patient to be seen or treated and patients will be advised as needed. Calling ahead helps staff direct you to the most appropriate care and take precautions to protect patients, employees and our community,” the release stated.

The Henry County Health Center (HCHC) in Mt. Pleasant also issues a news release last week but have yet to alter visitation requirements at this time. Patients coming into the facility will be screened under the Iowa Department of Public Health's recommendation, according to a news release. The questions are as follows:

1. Do you have a fever or respiratory symptoms (e.g., cough or difficulty breathing)?

2. Did you travel from China, Iran, Italy, Japan or South Korea within 14 days of symptom onset?

3. Did you have close contact with a laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 patient within 14 days of symptom onset?

The statement also said HCHC would like to remind the public the prevention measures of influenza and coronavirus are the same: cover coughs and sneezes in a tissue or elbow, clean hands frequently with soap and water and contain germs by staying home when sick.