Children’s Hospital, Women’s Care program Visitor Policy Updates
As communities in southern Ontario continue to report an increase in measles activity, London Health Sciences Centre (LHSC) is working to keep its most vulnerable patients safe. Effective immediately, Children’s Hospital and the Women’s Care program have implemented changes to their visitor policies.
Until further notice, the following visitor restrictions are in place at Children’s Hospital:
- One (1) parent/caregiver at a time will be permitted to stay with a child while they receive care at Children’s Hospital. This applies to all paediatric patients who are admitted to hospital, being seen in the emergency department or attending outpatient appointments. Exceptions will be made on a case-by-case basis.
- All parent/caregivers will be screened before entering and must provide proof of measles immunity OR wear an N95 mask at all times. Proof of immunity includes: a certificate showing two doses of the MMR vaccine, those born before 1970, or bloodwork results that show antibodies to the virus. Those who are unaware of their vaccination status can contact their local public health unit or primary care provider.
- No siblings, other family members or friends will be allowed to enter other than the designated parent/caregiver at this time.
For the Women’s Care program, the following visitor restrictions are in place:
For outpatient clinic appointments:
- If you are feeling unwell or have been exposed to measles over the past 21 days, please call your physician or midwife before arriving. Your care provider may choose to defer your appointment or see you virtually instead. If this isn’t possible, you will be required to wear a surgical mask while we complete further assessment.
- One (1) support person may accompany you to your appointment if they feel well and don’t have symptoms such as a fever, cough or rash. If they develop these symptoms while accompanying you, they will be asked to return home until they’re feeling better.
For inpatient units, including Antenatal, the Obstetrical Care Unit (OBCU) and Postpartum Care Unit (PPCU):
- One (1) adult support person may be with you at a time during your hospital stay if they feel well and don’t have symptoms such as a fever, cough or rash. If they develop these symptoms while accompanying you, they will be asked to return home until they’re feeling better.
- Your support person should stay by your side, only leaving the room when necessary.
Some units who serve a more high-risk patient population may have additional precautions in place. We encourage families or care givers to connect with the unit they are visiting directly to address questions or concerns.
