By Trish Svoboda

Ascension Via Christi’s Wichita hospitals are seeking the community’s assistance in safeguarding patients and staff by taking measures to curb the spread of respiratory illnesses prevalent in the area.

To ensure the well-being of patients and staff, the hospitals are asking that individuals who have had COVID-19 in the last 10 days or are currently experiencing cold or flu-like symptoms refrain from making in-person visits. In addition, visitors must be at least 12 years old, with the exception of the NewLife Center at Ascension Via Christi St. Joseph, where the minimum age is now 18.

In cases of special circumstances, patients and families are encouraged to talk with their nurse, who will speak with the healthcare team to determine safe visitation. Visitors are also reminded to wash their hands and/or use hand sanitizer upon entering and leaving a patient’s room, a protocol already in place for staff.