Dayton Children’s implements temporary visitor restrictions amid high flu and respiratory illness activity
Effective December 26, Dayton Children’s Hospital is experiencing exceptionally high patient volumes across its emergency departments, urgent care centers and Kids Express locations due to a significant increase in flu and other respiratory illnesses in the community.
To help protect patients, families and staff during this period of high transmission, Dayton Children’s is implementing temporary visitor restrictions and reminding families to choose the most appropriate setting for care. These steps are aligned with guidance from the Greater Dayton Area Hospital Association (GDAHA) and are consistent with actions being taken by other hospitals across the region.
visitor restrictions
Effective immediately, children younger than 14 will not be permitted to visit inpatient units. This is a standard safety measure used during periods of increased respiratory illness activity and is routinely implemented during fall and winter months to help reduce the spread of infection.
Additionally, Dayton Children’s requests anyone who is ill with any respiratory symptoms including coughing, fever, chills, headache, vomiting, sore throat, muscle aches or diarrhea to avoid visiting the hospital at this time.
choosing the right care
Dayton Children’s encourages parents and caregivers to consider the most appropriate care option for their child’s symptoms. Families are advised to:
- Use the hospital’s online symptom checker to help determine the best place for care
- Contact their child’s primary care provider first, including after hours, for guidance
- Reserve emergency department visits for true emergencies so patients with the most urgent needs can receive timely care
While Dayton Children’s will continue to care for all patients who arrive at the emergency department, families are encouraged to seek care at alternate locations when symptoms are not emergent.
Kids Express access
Families referred to Kids Express are encouraged to save their spot online before arrival. This option can help reduce wait times and support more efficient care during periods of high demand.
Dayton Children’s appreciates the community’s cooperation as it works alongside regional health care partners to ensure safe, timely and high-quality care for children during this respiratory illness season.
contact us
If you are interested in pursuing a story about Dayton Children’s please contact public relations manager, Katie Solovey, at 937-673-4941 or by filling out a media inquiry through our contact us form.
related resources
