Due to the spread of coronavirus / COVID-19 in North Carolina, UNC Lenoir Health Care announced today, in an effort to prevent patient and staff exposure to the spreading coronavirus, it is no longer permitting visitors to the inpatient areas until further notice. In addition, the number of entrances at the hospital will be limited. Any visitors under 18 years old are still not allowed and visitors older than 65, pregnant or are immunocompromised are strongly encouraged to not visit. 

Exceptions to the restrictions are in place, however, one visitor each will be allowed for pediatric patients’ laboring mothers, companions of an Emergency Department patient and as deemed appropriate by our Chief Nursing Officer. The number of visitors for end-of-life situations will be determined on a case-by-case basis. 

The health system’s previously enacted restrictions limited patients to one visitor each during the duration of their stay and made visitors subject to a health screening at any chosen time 

A statement on UNC health’s website explains the decision to further restrict visitor policies. 

These restrictions have been put in place to protect everyone’s safety. The best scientific data and expertise inform us that “social distancing” is an essential element in successful efforts to contain the spread of COVID-19. We must do our part to support these guidelines and remain a good community partner. We also encourage you to use electronic communication for “virtual visitation,” such as FaceTime and Skype, in place of in-person visitation wherever possible. We appreciate your understanding at this time.

In addition to sharing its new visitor policies, the hospital is asking the community for donations of important medical supplies, as the systems prepare to help more COVID-19 patients. N95 masks, surgical masks and nasal swabs are the items of the highest priority.

The community is reminded to practice appropriate social distancing, wash hands frequently, contact your primary care provider if you develop respiratory symptoms or call the UNC Health Line at 1-888-850-2684.

Information on COVID-19 (the Coronavirus) may be found at www.unclenoir.org. Changes in hospital operations may be found on our Facebook page.