Latest coronavirus casualty: Hospital visitors.

Due to the COVID-19 outbreak, Piedmont Fayette Hospital is not allowing visitors for the time being.

Legal guardians or family caregivers will be allowed if it is determined necessary for the care of the patient (such as end of life care, NICU and other minors receiving care). Labor and delivery patients will be allowed one support person.

All approved visitors must pass a health screening which includes checking of symptoms of acute respiratory illness, travel history, and close contact with someone suspected to have COVID-19. Screenings may also include temperature checks for approved visitors, staff, and vendors.

Visitors will not be permitted into the room of a patient who is presumed or confirmed positive for COVID-19.

“We realize that our visitors would like to come and support their loved ones, but it is for their safety and the safety of our staff that we are limiting visitors at this time,” said Steve Porter, CEO of Piedmont Fayette. “We appreciate everyone’s understanding and cooperation during this healthcare crisis.”

For more information about Piedmont Healthcare’s response to COVID-19, please visit piedmont.org.