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INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. — The number of flu-related deaths continues to rise, according to the Indiana Department of Health.
Officials say 11 people have died from the flu so far this season. This is 7 more deaths than the previous week.
Of the deaths this season, 3 were between 50-64 years old and 8 were at least 65 years old.
While there have been no pediatric flu deaths in Indiana, there have been 14 pediatric deaths nationwide. Riley Hospital for Children reported 314 cases of patients with the virus in November compared to just four positive tests in October.
Nationwide, there have been 19,593 people admitted to the hospital with influenza over the last week. This is almost double the number of people that were hospitalized in the previous week.
In response to the increasing number of influenza cases and other respiratory illnesses, Franciscan Health is implementing visitor restrictions in Indianapolis, Mooresville, and Carmel. The following policies went into effect Monday:
- Only two immediate family members as identified by a patient are allowed to visit at a time (excluding clergy who are part of the care team).
- Visitors must be at least 18 years of age.
- Those having symptoms suggestive of respiratory illness will not be allowed to visit.
- All visitors are required to wear hospital-approved masks. Masks must cover the mouth and nose at all times.
- Visitors should continue to observe social distancing and practice good hand hygiene.
- Visitation hours are from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.
IU Health is also limiting visitors at some of its hospitals.
Facility and Start Date
- IU Health Methodist Hospital – Dec. 5
- IU Health University Hospital – Dec. 5
- Riley Hospital for Children – already observing restrictions
- IU Health North Hospital – Dec. 5
- IU Health West Hospital – Dec. 5
- IU Health Saxony Hospital – Dec. 5
- IU Health Tipton Hospital – Dec. 5
- IU Health Arnett Hospital – Dec. 6
- IU Health Frankfort Hospital – Dec. 6
- IU Health White Memorial Hospital – Dec. 6
The following restrictions will remain in effect until viral illness rates decline:
- Only immediate family (18 or older) will be allowed to visit and be on the patient unit, with a limit of two visitors at any one time.
- Visitors younger than 18 years* will not be permitted on patient units (exceptions made for parents/guardians younger than 18).
- Masking is required for visitors and team members in all patient encounters (i.e., when in a room with a patient).
- Visitors who have flu-like or COVID-19 symptoms, such as fever, cough, chills or muscle aches, will not be allowed to visit patients.
- Visitors, vendors, volunteers and team members must be vigilant about hand washing and covering coughs.
So far this season, the CDC estimates there have been at least 8.7 million illnesses, 78,000 hospitalizations, and 4,500 deaths from flu. The hospitalization rate is higher than the rate seen at the same time during every previous season since 2010-2011.
The CDC says the highest rate of hospitalization is among adults aged 65 and older followed by children aged 0-4 years.
The CDC says the majority of influenza viruses tested are similar to those included in this season’s vaccine. That is why they are encouraging everyone older than 6 months to get vaccinated.
The CDC says the best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to this virus. However, as a reminder, CDC always recommends everyday preventive actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory diseases, including:
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Stay home when you are sick.
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
- If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Always wash hands with soap and water if hands are visibly dirty.
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