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News | Feb. 14, 2025

Important Notice to Patients: Limit Visitors to Emergency Room to Protect Against Cold, Flu, and Respiratory Illnesses

By Fort Meade Medical Department Activity Public Affairs Office

FORT GEORGE G. MEADE, Md.–  As part of our ongoing commitment to patient safety and public health, Kimbrough Ambulatory Care Center urges patients and their families to limit the number of people accompanying a loved one to the emergency room. With the current increase in seasonal illnesses such as the cold, flu, and respiratory infections, we are advising that only essential visitors should be in ER waiting areas.

The ER waiting room can be a place where patients and their families are exposed to contagious illnesses, and minimizing the number of people in the waiting area will help reduce the spread of these infections. Limiting the number of visitors is a key step in ensuring a safer and more comfortable experience for everyone seeking care.

Key points for visitors:
  • Only one or two family members or close contacts should accompany the patient to the ER whenever possible.
  • Unwell individuals, including those with cold or flu-like symptoms, should avoid visiting the ER unless necessary for their own care.
  • Visitors should follow all hospital guidelines, including wearing masks if requested and practicing good hand hygiene.
This step will help reduce exposure to contagious diseases, protect vulnerable populations, and allow us to better focus on providing immediate care to those in need.
We thank you for your understanding and cooperation. Our priority is the safety and well-being of our patients, staff, and community.

Please contact the hospital where your loved one is located for more information or any questions on their visitor policy.
 
Don't forget to keep your family's information up to date in DEERS!