HMHP lifts visitation restrictions at its hospitals

YOUNGSTOWN — Humility of Mary Health Partners has lifted its restricted visitation policy enacted in mid-October because of a decrease in influenza cases in the area.

“The number of patients coming to the emergency departments with influenza-like symptoms has decreased substantially making it no longer necessary to restrict visitation,” says Patricia Patterson, manager of HMHP infection control services. “However, we still ask anyone who isn’t feeling well or has flu-like symptoms to refrain from visiting until they are feeling better and are symptom free,” she said.

In addition, Patterson reminded everyone that proper cough etiquette, coughing into your elbow not your hand, and frequent hand washing and the use of alcohol-based hand sanitizer can go a long way towards stopping the spread of infection.

HMHP oversees the operation of St. Elizabeth Health Center, Youngstown, St. Elizabeth Boardman Campus, and St. Joseph Health Center in Warren.