Lakewood Limits Visitors

Due to an increase in flu cases, Lakewood Health System of Staples will be limiting visitors at all Lakewood Health System locations; including all clinics, the hospital, care center and assisted living locations. Patients and caregivers are asked to leave family members and friends at home when visiting. If visitation to Lakewood Health System is necessary, all school-aged children will be required to wear a mask and all other visitors must complete a brief wellness evaluation.

Dr. Peter Henry, Emergency Room Director at St. Joseph's Medical Center in Brainerd tells KLKS News, they are not limiting visitors at this time, but asks vistors to exercise good judgement.

Dr. Henry says they have seen a recent surge in absenteeism at area schools, and expects the peak in the next few weeks. He says it is important to remember that the swine flu has mostly resulted in mild to moderate symptoms.