Scottsbluff, NE - Regional West Medical Center is asking that children and teenagers not visit the campus unless they have a medical condition that needs to be treated. This action relates to the current H1N1 influenza outbreak and is intended to reduce the spread of infection to hospital patients and staff. H1N1 influenza has affected children and teenagers more heavily than other age groups.

“Influenza can be very hard to contain,” said Marsha Meyer, Regional West Infection Control Officer. “Our decision to limit access by minors to our hospital floors is an effort to protect our patients from unnecessary exposure to flu. We are hopeful that the public will share our safety goal and honor this precautionary request.”

Social visits at Regional West Medical Center by young people under the age of 19 will be restricted in the following areas:

-Emergency room
-Intensive Care Unit
-Patient floors two, three and four
-Birth and Infant Care Center
-Pediatric Unit
-Restorative Care Unit

As always, anyone experiencing a fever, cough or any other flu-like symptom should refrain from visiting any part of the hospital for social reasons.

Due to the influenza outbreak, Regional West has temporarily suspended its job shadow program until further notice. This program normally allows area students to learn about health care careers that interest them by observing hospital employees in the work environment.

Meyer reminds people to protect themselves from the spread of influenza by washing their hands frequently and covering their mouth when coughing. Meyer recommends that individuals stay away from public areas if they are experiencing flu-like symptoms.

“As simple as it sounds, the best way to avoid catching or spreading influenza is by practicing good hygiene and opting to stay home when sick,” said Meyer.

Regional West Health Services, with over 1,800 employees, provides 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, we offer care that spans more than 30 medical specialties. Regional West Medical Center, a subsidiary of Regional West Health Services, is accredited by The Joint Commission and is one of three Level II Trauma Centers in the state of Nebraska.