PHOENIX — Banner Health facilities will enforce seasonal visitor restrictions starting Sunday due to heightened concerns over flu and respiratory viruses.
The new policy applies to all Banner hospitals across six states, including Arizona, and aims to protect patients, staff, and visitors from illness.
Healthy siblings of newborns will still be allowed to visit obstetrics or pediatric units but may be screened by staff before entry. Visitors exhibiting symptoms such as fever, cough, vomiting, or diarrhea are prohibited, as are most visitors under the age of 13.
Children under 13 who are permitted on the premises must remain under adult supervision in public areas, such as waiting rooms and cafeterias.
“The health and well-being of our patients, staff, and visitors are extremely important to us,” said Joan Ivaska, Executive Director of Infection Prevention at Banner Health. “We implement hospital restrictions during this time of year to keep everyone safe and help prevent the spread of infection. We appreciate visitors complying with our precautions to help protect themselves and others.”
Banner Health also encourages visitors to wash or sanitize their hands frequently while at the hospital to minimize the spread of germs.
