Spectrum Health hospitals are working to meet the challenge of caring for our community amid an influx of respiratory illness. Because one of the most important tools in fighting the transmission of infection is limiting exposure, only healthy visitors may visit patients in the hospitals or outpatient locations.

 

Michigan is among the hardest hit states for respiratory illnesses this season, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Respiratory illnesses, including RSV (respiratory syncytial virus), can be especially dangerous to the young, frail or elderly.

 

Visitors are asked to respect the following restrictions:

 

• If you are ill, please refrain from visiting the hospital
• All visitors are expected to be healthy and the hospitals are taking active steps to protect patients, staff and visitors.
• A healthy visitor is someone who does not have the following symptoms:

 

• Fever, greater than 100.4 F
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Runny nose or congestion
• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Rash or draining sores

 

These restrictions apply to visitors at all Spectrum Health hospitals and are effective until further notice.

 

The measures are designed to protect vulnerable patients, as well as staff members. Spectrum Health will continue to monitor the situation and stay in contact with clinical leaders at health systems across the state to collaboratively and effectively address the situation.

 

Anyone who is experiencing respiratory or flu-like symptoms should consider a video visit with a Spectrum Health Now provider or a trip to a Spectrum Health Walk-In Clinic.

 

Spectrum Health Big Rapids Hospital Walk-In Clinic, at 650 Linden Street, Suite 1 in Big Rapids is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

 

Spectrum Health Reed City Hospital Convenient Care Walk-In Clinic, at 300 N. Patterson Road in Reed City is also open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. weekdays and on Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.