South Carolina’s Department of Public Health has classified influenza activity as “widespread” for the week of December 14-20, the latest reported period. This marks a significant uptick, with 3,322 lab-confirmed tests statewide, 359 influenza-associated hospitalizations, and one death in the Lowcountry region across 60 reporting hospitals. For the full flu season so far, totals stand at 742 hospitalizations and seven deaths.
Hampton Regional Medical Center (HRMC) in the Lowcountry has responded with visitor restrictions to curb spread amid the outbreak’s severity.
Key Hospital Precautions at HRMC
- Symptom Screening: No visitors with flu-like symptoms allowed.
- Visitor Limits: Maximum of two visitors per patient.
- Age Restrictions: Children under 12 barred from patient rooms but permitted in waiting areas with adult supervision.
- Hygiene Protocols: Cover coughs/sneezes with tissue, followed by hand sanitizer or washing.
- Mask Availability: Masks provided at entrances for anyone arriving with symptoms.
- General Advice: Seek immediate care for fever or flu symptoms; stay home post-diagnosis to avoid transmission.
These measures prioritize patient safety during peak flu season. Officials urge vaccination, hand hygiene, and avoiding crowds where possible.
For the most current data, check the South Carolina Department of Public Health flu surveillance dashboard or local hospital updates, as activity can change rapidly. If you’re in the area, have you gotten your flu shot this season?
