Seasonal visitation restrictions at WakeMed’s facilities will go into effect on Dec. 22 to try to limit the spread of illness during flu season.
Starting on the 22nd, children younger than 12 will not be allowed to visit patients in WakeMed hospital nursing units, patient care areas and waiting rooms. The measure is to prevent the spread of respiratory syncytial virus and the flu.
The policy includes Healthplex emergency departments and WakeMed Mental Health and Well-Being Hospital – WakeBrook.
“We truly understand that this annual visitation restriction can be difficult for families, but we are committed to ensuring our patients are safe while they are in our care,” said a WakeMed spokesperson. “Restricting visitation is best clinical practice to prevent the spread of viruses within our facilities.”
Eleven people have died from the flu in North Carolina as of Wednesday, Dec. 17, for the 2025-2026 flu season.
