Stock photo of sick family sitting side by side in bed blowing their noses and wearing blankets.

Ashe Memorial Hospital Updates Flu Safety Guidelines

As flu season increases in our community, Ashe Memorial Hospital is taking steps to help protect our patients, visitors, and staff. These measures are designed to reduce the spread of illness and keep everyone safe.

Visitor Guidelines (Effective January 1,2026)
• No visitors under age 13 are allowed in the hospital unless they have a scheduled test, procedure, or are coming to the Emergency Department.
• Visitors who are sick with respiratory symptoms, fever, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea should stay home.

Masking
• Masks are strongly encouraged for patients and visitors, especially in waiting areas, hallways, and patient care areas.
• Anyone with symptoms of illness is encouraged to wear a mask at all times while in the hospital.

Other Safety Measures
• Hand sanitizer stations are available throughout the hospital—please use them when entering and leaving.
• Our staff continues enhanced cleaning and infection control practices.

What You Can Do
• Stay home if you’re sick to protect others.
• Consider wearing a mask in common areas to reduce the spread of germs.
• Get vaccinated for flu and COVID-19 to help keep yourself and others safe.

These guidelines may be updated as flu activity changes. Visitors and patients are encouraged to check Ashe Memorial Hospital communications or contact the facility for the latest information.