FORT WORTH (WBAP/KLIF) – A rise in local COVID-19 cases has prompted Cook Children’s Medical Center to change its inpatient visitor policy. Doctors said Thursday that the adjustment is intended to reduce the risk of transmitting the virus on campus.
Beginning Monday, only one primary caregiver will be allowed per patient inside the medical center. Siblings and other visitors will not be allowed. The rule was in place from March through October 1. It was retracted with a drop in cases, but due to substantial community spread of the virus, the medical center is reverting to the protocol.
“We know these measures greatly impact our patient families and mean missed moments between parents and children,” said Stan Davis, Chief Operating Officer at Cook Children’s. “This decision was not made lightly, and was determined to be necessary given the circumstances surrounding the rapid spread of COVID-19 in our community.”
Cook Children’s is currently experiencing the highest number of infected children on a daily basis since the COVID-19 pandemic began. The seven day rolling positivity rate is 8.3%, up from an average of 5% seen in recent months. This reflects an increase in the total number of patients testing positive for COVID-19 across Cook Children’s Medical Center, primary care and urgent care locations. In addition, there are currently 8 confirmed COVID-19 patients at Cook Children’s Medical Center.
Hospital officials ask everyone to wear a mask, practice social distancing and avoid large gatherings.
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