11/5/2009 - Hospital Implements New Visitor Restrictions to Prevent Flu

St. Helena Hospital has implemented a new visitation policy to protect patients and staff from exposure to influenza. Visitors are asked to observe the following restrictions until further notice:

• No visitation by anyone under age 16


• No visitation by anyone who is ill with a fever higher than 100° F and a cough and/or sore throat


• Only 2 visitors per patient are allowed

Proper hand-washing hygiene is one of the best defenses to prevent the flu. St. Helena Hospital has placed sanitizing hand gel and information signs throughout the hospital and is encouraging frequent hand washing, especially after coughing or sneezing.  For information about protecting yourself from the flu or the obtaining the flu vaccine, contact your health care provider or the Napa County Public Health division at (707) 253-4540 or www.co.napa.ca.us and click on the H1N1 logo on the home page.