Atrium, Novant Health to lift visitor restrictions for children under age 13
CHARLOTTE, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) — Starting March 27 at 7 a.m., Atrium and Novant Health will lift their temporary visitor restrictions for children under age 13 after two months of being in place for hospitals in North Carolina.
'We have observed a steady decline in the volume and severity of respiratory illnesses over the past several weeks. Together with other North Carolina health systems, we are making the decision to lift our temporary visitor restrictions,' said Dr. David Priest, senior vice president and chief safety and quality officer, of Novant Health. 'We thank everyone for their cooperation and support to keep our patients safe during peak respiratory virus season. We look forward to welcoming back visitors of all ages to our hospitals.'
Masks are optional and will continue to be available for visitors; however, for Atrium visitors, masks are required for all individuals in high-risk patient areas when indicated by signage and for symptomatic patients if outside their patient room.
'While respiratory viral season started late this year and we saw high rates of flu and RSV cases, we have seen a sustained and progressive decrease in the respiratory viral infection in our communities and hospitals over the past several weeks,' said Dr. Katie Passaretti, chief infection prevention officer for Advocate Health, of which Atrium Health. 'While this year's season is coming to a close, we must remain vigilant and responsive to any potential changes. Our focus remains on providing safe and effective care to all patients, and this decision is a testament to our collective efforts in combating infectious diseases.'
Both organizations continue to recommend that all visitors take measures to limit the spread of respiratory viruses:
Stay home if you're sick. Health officials strongly encourage people to stay home when sick, maintain good respiratory etiquette such as handwashing and covering the nose and mouth when sneezing or coughing.
Get vaccinated. Most importantly, get vaccinated against flu, RSV (for eligible children and senior citizens) and COVID-19.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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