Submitted Photo This sign is visible to Brooks Memorial Hospital visitors.

The Infection Control Department at Brooks-TLC Hospital System, Inc. reminds the community of recent widespread flu activity in our region.

According to Lisa Barone, director of Infection Control, “We take infection prevention very seriously. We strongly urge no more than two visitors per patient at any time. Those in our community, especially children, with fever, cough or other illnesses should not visit the hospital.”

Precaution signs have been placed at all hospital entrances to remind visitors of the active flu season at this time. Mask holders have been placed throughout the hospital for use by patients and others who feel sick upon entering the hospital.

To help stop the spread of the flu virus, the hospital reminds community members of these important precautions:

¯ Get vaccinated. It’s not too late to get your flu shot.

¯ Always cover your cough, but never with your hand. Cough into your bent elbow.

¯ When using hand sanitizer, hands need to be rubbed vigorously until dry. Friction is the only way to ensure its effectiveness.

¯ Grocery store cart handles are a common host of germs. Use sanitary wipes provided to clean cart handles before using.

¯ Be mindful that a common cold comes on slowly, whereas the flu tends to come on suddenly and severely.

Lastly, Brooks-TLC offers the flu vaccination to its employees and their families and requires those who decline to wear a mask to help protect all patients and visitors to the hospital.