Union Hospital and Union Hospital Clinton will enforce a new visitation policy effective immediately in response to an increase in H1N1 flu cases in our community.

"This is a very contagious virus and our patients' safety is our number one priority, " said Infectious Disease Physician Anwer Jaffri, M.D.

Both hospitals restricted visitation policy is as follows:

2 visitors per patient

no visitors under the age of 16

For Obstetric and Pediatrics: parents/grandparents (and only 2 at a time)

No visitors symptomatic for the flu (cough, fever, sore throat, etc.)

All visitors are encouraged to wash their hands or use alcohol hand rub both before and after visiting the hospital and avoid visiting if they themselves are not well.

"These precautions will keep our patients safer. The 16 year old and younger group is the largest carrier of the virus so far, so this is a necessary precaution," Dr. Jaffri continued.

If you would like to reach your hospitalized loved and are unable to visit, the hospital recommends calling them or sending them a free e-card through its website, www.myunionhospital.org.

Tomas Vegas, M.D., board certified family physician has joined Union Hospital Medical Group and opened his medical office at 700 South Main Street, Clinton, Indiana. He was most recently the associate director of family medicine program at Union hospital. Dr. Vegas's clinical interests include homeopathy, newborn, pediatric and adolescent care, and general medicine.

Please join Union Hospital Clinton in welcoming a new physician

Laurie Valera, M.D., family physician, has joined Union Hospital Medical Group and opened her medical office at 114 N. Division Street, Cayuga, Indiana. Dr. Valera's clinical interests include maternal and child care-obstetrical care, women's health, preventive medicine, dermatological care, adolescent care and sports physicals.