Because of a steady increase in flu activity and RSV, area hospitals that are a part of the Community Patient Safety Coalition of Southwest Indiana/Kentucky are implementing temporary visitor restrictions to help limit exposure and spread of these illnesses and to help protect hospital patients and staff, according to a release from the coalition.
These hospitals will begin implementing the temporary visitor restrictions immediately, said the release.
The restrictions include:
- No visitors with symptoms of illness such as sudden onset of fever, cough, headache, muscle and joint pain, sore throat and runny nose.
- No visitors under the age of 16. Visitors should check the hospital’s website or call the facility in advance to learn more about its specific restrictions and any exceptions.
Tri-State hospitals participating in the temporary visitor restrictions include:
- Ascension St. Vincent Evansville
- Ascension St. Vincent Orthopedic Hospital
- Ascension St. Vincent Warrick
- Deaconess Cross Pointe
- Deaconess Gateway Hospital
- Deaconess Gibson Hospital
- Deaconess Henderson Hospital
- Deaconess Memorial Medical Center
- Deaconess Midtown Hospital
- Deaconess Union County Hospital
- Encompass Health Deaconess
- Good Samaritan Hospital
- The Women’s Hospital
According to the CPSC, the policy is designed to help protect the most vulnerable patients from respiratory viruses. As with any time of the year, a visitor who is not feeling well should stay home. Visitors should observe the standard practices of washing hands and covering coughs and sneezes when around others. Masks will be provided for guests by the facility.
Vaccines are currently available for flu, RSV (Respiratory syncytial virus) and COVID-19. Individuals should talk with their medical provider about vaccines, and which ones are recommended for them based on age and other factors, said the release.
The CPSC is comprised of clinical leaders from the previously named hospitals, along with the Indiana Hospital Association and the Vanderburgh County Health Department.
According to the CDC, the 2025-2026 flu season is the most severe in 25 years, but CPSC hospitals are also seeing an uptick in hospitalizations from RSV and Covid-19. CPSC members encourage vaccine discussions with your healthcare provider. Vaccines may not prevent an infection but can help with symptom management.
Key Health Reminders:
- Thoroughly wash your hands
- If you are feeling ill, mask up/limit social gatherings
- Cover coughs and sneezes when around others
- Get tested when you exhibit symptoms
Special arrangements can be made with each facility to allow additional visitors or younger visitors based on circumstances, such as births or end of life, said the release.
