rush screening visitors for flu

SUN-TIMES MEDIA WIRE Feb 7, 2011 03:08PM

• Share
• E-Mail
• Print

A recent surge in flu patients at rush University Medical Center is forcing hospital staff to screen visitors for flu-like symptoms.

The number of patients coming to rush with flu-like symptoms has increased significantly in the last few weeks, prompting the hospital to screen all visitors to protect patients, staff and visitors, the hospital said.

All people with flu-like symptoms are asked to refrain from visiting patients at rush. and beginning Monday, trained staff will be screening visitors at all entrances to the hospital for symptoms. Symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, headaches or body aches, chills and fatigue.

Once screened, visitors will get a yellow “flu-check” sticker to wear throughout their time at rush. those who do exhibit flu symptoms may be asked to go home rather than potentially spread illness.

Patients coming to the hospital for appointments who have flu-like symptoms will be asked to wear a mask, and screenings of outpatients and their families will continue at the clinic or office, the hospital said.

The Illinois Department of Public Health says there is widespread flu activity in Illinois at this time and Chicago is reporting an increase in the number of flu-associated ICU admissions over the past two weeks.