Due to the rapidly increasing number of flu cases in our area, St. Joseph’s Hospital and Candler Hospital are implementing visitor restrictions to protect patients, visitors and employees.(Above video: Despite 2017’s Deadly Flu Season, Over 40% of Adults Don’t Plan on Getting a Flu Shot This Year)Flu cases have been increasing for the last three weeks and patients with influenza-like illnesses at St. Joseph’s/Candler have been above the state baseline.· Do not visit any St. Joseph’s/Candler patient if you have any signs or symptoms of influenza.· Children under the age of 18 are not permitted to visit any patients at St. Joseph’s/Candler.· Those under the age of 18 cannot visit patients at the Telfair Birthplace at Candler Hospital unless they are the primary caretaker.· Only children seeking treatment should come to the hospitals.· Children under the age of 18 are not permitted to wait for family in any waiting area.· Patients can only receive two visitors at a time, except the Emergency Department where one visitor is allowed.Flu-like symptoms include:· Fever (100 degrees or more) · Cough· Sore throat· Muscle/joint/body aches· Headache· Nausea/vomiting/diarrheaTo help prevent the spread of the flu, please wash your hands regularly, cover your cough and sneezes, and get the flu vaccine. The vaccine can be obtained at any of the St. Joseph’s/Candler Medical Group Management primary care offices. Call 912-819-8888 for an appointment. www.sjchs.org/medical-group.