Because of a spike in regional flu cases, children 16 years of age and under should not be in Blessing Hospital in Quincy or Illini Community Hospital in Pittsfield unless they need outpatient care - including emergency or ambulatory care or a have a scheduled test, procedure or therapy - or they are visiting a family member who is a patient at the end of life.
The visiting restrictions are in compliance with the recommendation of the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) when flu cases reach a “regional level.” IDPH has declared a regional level flu outbreak in its Peoria Region, of which Blessing Hospital and Illini Community Hospital is included.
Adults are reminded that if they are not feeling well to also not visit hospitalized patients for the safety of the patients who immune system may be weakened due to their condition.