Commencing 7 a.m. on March 27, Wilkes Medical Center in North Wilkesboro and all other Atrium Health and Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist locations have lifted the mask and visitor restrictions that have been in place since January. This significant move, communicated via an Atrium press release, is primarily due to the sustained decrease in the cases of respiratory illnesses among patients and hospital staff.
Significant changes to these restrictions include readmission of children aged 12 and under to hospitals. However, the organization still emphasizes that masks remain optional and will continue to be available for any visitor who wishes to wear one. Visitors showing respiratory symptoms are strongly discouraged from visiting, and mandatory masking is enforced in high-risk patient areas as stipulated by signage.
Dr. Katie Passaretti, the Chief Infection Prevention Officer for Advocate Health, under which Atrium Health operates, explained that despite an unusually late start to the respiratory viral season and strikingly high rates of flu and RSV cases, there has been a consistent and steady plunge in respiratory viral infections both in the community and within hospitals in recent weeks.
Nevertheless, Dr. Passareti underscores the importance of maintaining vigilance against potential changes. While the current season draws to a close, the commitment to providing safe and effective care to all patients remains, and this decision to ease restrictions testifies to the concerted efforts made in combating infectious diseases.
Healthcare leaders continue to recommend practicing good hand hygiene both in mitigating the risk of contracting respiratory viral pathogens such as COVID-19, flu or RSV, and in general. These include frequent handwashing with soap and warm water and utilization of alcohol-based hand sanitizers. Other preventive actions include not touching the face with unclean hands and staying home in case of feeling unwell.
Furthermore, Atrium Health is strongly advocating for all patients and others to keep up to date with recommended vaccinations.