ANN ARBOR, Mich. (WXYZ) — Michigan Medicine announced new visitor restrictions in effect during the coronavirus outbreak. The restrictions are now in effect and are aimed to help reduce the spread of all diseases, including COVID-19.
Related: Beaumont announces new coronavirus safety measures, hotline
The new restrictions are:
- Adult patients: One adult visitor.
- Pediatric and newborn patients: Two visitors, but only parents or guardians. No siblings or extended family.
- Obstetric patients: Two adult visitors for mothers in labor and delivery. No siblings of newborn.
- No visitors with flu-like or cold symptoms.
- No children under 16 will be allowed to visit, except under exceptional circumstances.
- In clinics, patients are limited to one visitor/companion who is providing transportation to the patient receiving care.
“We understand these are unusual circumstances and that these actions may cause hardship for our patients. However, our top priority is the safety of our patients and of our staff. We believe these efforts will reduce chances of infection spreading,” said Jeff Desmond, M.D., chief medical officer at Michigan Medicine.
The U-M Health System is treating one coronavirus patient who is stable.
“We continue to reassure patients that we have used proper precautions with our COVID-19 positive patient, who was carefully isolated to minimize the risk of exposure to our employees and patients,” Desmond said.
“Based on that, risk of infection is low for our employees and visitors, even if you work in our hospitals or near the unit where the patient is isolated. Risk is considered high if you have prolonged exposure to someone with symptoms without appropriate protective equipment.”
The hospital is not canceling appointments, surgeries or advising that patients not come to our clinics.