SCOTTSBLUFF, Neb., – Regional West Medical Center is restricting visitation to two patients units due to an increased incidence of respiratory illness.

Children under age 15 will not be permitted to visit the Birth and Infant Care Center or the Inpatient Pediatric Unit unless they have a medical condition that requires treatment. This action is intended to reduce the spread of infection to hospital patients and staff.

As always, anyone who is experiencing a fever or cough should refrain from visiting any part of the hospital except when seeking medical care.

Regional West reminds people to protect themselves from the spread of viruses by washing their hands frequently.

Regional West Health Services is the parent company for Regional West Medical Center and Regional West Physicians Clinic. These organizations, with over 1,800 employees, provide comprehensive and innovative health care services for the people and communities of western Nebraska and the neighboring states of Colorado, South Dakota and Wyoming. With over 110 active physicians, 95 percent of whom are board certified or board eligible, plus an additional 25 consulting specialists, the Regional West family of health care organizations offers care that spans more than 30 medical specialties.