Flu and Stomach Bug: Hospitals Impose Visitor Ban - Lusatia Hospitals Halt Visits Amid Surge in Viral and Gastrointestinal Outbreaks

Two hospitals in Lusatia have temporarily stopped most visits due to a sharp rise in viral infections. The Lusatia Clinic in Forst and the Naemi Wilke Diakonie Hospital in Guben introduced restrictions after outbreaks of influenza and gastrointestinal illnesses spread among patients and staff. Both facilities will now only allow visits in urgent cases.

The Lusatia Clinic in Forst first limited visits on an unspecified date, with the measures remaining in place until February 6. Patients can still receive personal items delivered to the wards, but general visiting has been halted. Meanwhile, the Naemi Wilke Diakonie Hospital in Guben imposed its ban on January 30, extending it through February 7.

Recent reports from the Robert Koch Institute (RKI) show that while flu cases have risen sharply in other German regions like Bavaria and North Rhine-Westphalia, Lusatia has seen stable or even declining numbers. However, gastrointestinal infections have spiked locally, with outbreaks in the area surpassing the national average. Health officials warn that even after symptoms fade, individuals can remain contagious for several days.

Medical experts are urging stricter hand hygiene and reduced contact with sick people. Both hospitals emphasise that visits will only be permitted in 'justified exceptional cases' and must be arranged in advance.

The restrictions aim to control the spread of infections within the hospitals. Until early February, only essential visits will be allowed at both sites. Staff continue to monitor the situation, with hygiene measures reinforced to protect patients and healthcare workers.