Statement from Mike Gutzeit, MD, Chief Medical Officer, Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin:

“To help prevent the spread of the influenza virus and to protect the health of our patients, families and staff, Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin is implementing a temporary visitor restriction at both our Milwaukee and Fox Valley hospitals.

Effective Thursday, Feb. 8, 2018, no person under the age of 12 will be allowed in any inpatient care area. This policy does NOT include clinic appointments.

This year’s flu season is one of the most severe we’ve seen in recent years. Throughout Wisconsin and the country, hospitals are reporting much higher levels of influenza activity than past years and experts say it still hasn’t peaked. As a result, many children’s hospitals across the country have taken similar precautionary steps. By restricting patient visitation, we will limit potential exposure to the influenza virus.

We know this change may be difficult for some of our patient families. While we understand and appreciate the inconvenience this may cause, patient safety is our primary goal.

This restriction will be lifted as soon as possible and will be assessed on a regular basis as new information about the influenza season becomes available. Updates will be provided at chw.org/flu.

It is still not too late to get vaccinated if you haven’t already. While this year’s influenza vaccine is somewhat less effective than in past years, getting the vaccine is still one of the best ways to prevent the illness and reduce its severity. Also, be sure to wash your hands regularly and thoroughly. If you or your child is showing any symptoms, please stay home.”