Deaconess Illinois enacts temporary visitor restrictions
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By TRAVIS MORSE
tmorse@morningsentinel.com
MOUNT VERNON — Starting Friday, Jan. 9, all Deaconess Illinois hospitals and facilities are enacting temporary restrictions for visitors due to a steady increase in flu activity and RSV. That includes the Deaconess Illinois Crossroads hospital in Mount Vernon.
In doing this, Deaconess Illinois is joining several other hospitals across the Tri-State region, states a Deaconess Illinois news release. Influenza-like illness reported by patients at hospital emergency departments in the area is on the rise, the release states.
“Our priority is keeping patients safe during this challenging flu season. By limiting visitors who may be ill and encouraging preventive measures, we can reduce the spread of respiratory viruses and protect the most vulnerable in our care,” said Desireé R. Stumpf, Regional Chief Nursing Officer – Interim, Deaconess Illinois.
According to the release, these temporary visitor restrictions are being implemented to help limit exposure and spread of these illnesses and to help protect hospital patients and staff.
For this region, the restrictions apply to Deaconess Illinois Crossroads in Mount Vernon, Deaconess Illinois Medical Center in Marion, Deaconess Illinois Union County, and Red Bud Regional Medical Center.
The specific restrictions are as follows:
- 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. Visitors should check the hospital’s website or call the facility in advance to learn more about its specific restrictions and any exceptions.
“The policy is designed to help protect the most vulnerable patients from respiratory viruses,” the news release states. “As with any time of the year, a visitor who is not feeling well should stay home. Visitors should observe the standard practices of washing hands and covering coughs and sneezes when around others. Masks will be provided for guests by the facility.”
Vaccines are currently available for flu, RSV (Respiratory syncytial virus), and COVID-19. Individuals should talk with their medical provider about vaccines and which ones are recommended for them based on age and other factors, the release states.
According to the CDC, the 2025-2026 flu season is the most severe in 25 years, but Deaconess Illinois hospitals are also seeing an uptick in hospitalizations from RSV and COVID-19. Vaccines may not prevent an infection but can help with symptom management.
Deaconess Illinois also provided some key health reminders when it comes to flu-like illnesses. They include:
- 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.
It is unclear how long the temporary visitor restrictions will be in place. Special arrangements can be made with each facility to allow additional visitors or younger visitors based on circumstances, such as births or end of life, the news release states.
For more information, contact Deaconess Illinois or visit the organization’s website.
