Good Samaritan Reminds Community of Visitor Guidelines as Flu Cases Rise

Good Samaritan has observed an uptick in influenza-like illness in outpatient settings, along with increased inpatient admissions related to respiratory illness.

To help reduce the risk of transmission and protect patients, visitors, and caregivers, Good Samaritan is asking all patients seeking outpatient services who are experiencing respiratory or flu-like symptoms to wear a mask while inside the hospital, physician offices and outpatient clinics.

“This is an important step in promoting a safe and healthy environment for everyone who enters our facilities,” said Laura McBee, Infection Prevention Coordinator at Good Samaritan. “Wearing a mask when you’re experiencing symptoms helps reduce the spread of respiratory illnesses and protects those who may be more vulnerable.”

Restrictions that continue as normal within the hospital 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.
• Only two visitors allowed on inpatient units during visiting hours of 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., except in certain circumstances that are noted on the hospital’s website at gshvin.org/visitors.

Patients, visitors and employees who are feeling well may choose to wear a mask as an added precaution to help reduce exposure to respiratory illnesses while in the hospital. Masks will be available for patients and visitors at Good Samaritan’s main entrances.

McBee also emphasized that it is not too late to take steps to protect yourself this flu season. Influenza and COVID vaccines remain an important tool in reducing the severity of illness, even though they do not fully prevent infection.

Influenza and COVID vaccines are available at Good Samaritan physician offices. Patients interested in receiving a vaccine should schedule an appointment with their provider.

According to the CDC, the 2025-2026 flu season is the most severe in 25 years, but hospitals in the region are also seeing an uptick in hospitalizations from RSV (Respiratory syncytial virus) and Covid-19.

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

Good Samaritan will continue to monitor illness trends and provide updates as needed. For full Good Samaritan visitor guidelines, please visit gshvin.org/visitors.