Dec. 18. Novant Health has joined Atrium in visitor restrictions due to an increase in flu, COVID-19 and RSV cases. Starting Tuesday, Dec. 19 children under age 13 are asked not to visit patients to reduce the spread of respiratory viruses.

Visitor guidance from Novant:

—Kids under 13, unless seeking care or other special circumstances, should stay home. They may be permitted to visit under special circumstances, such as visiting a family member who is in end-of-life care. Parents should work with the patient’s care team to make arrangements.

—Masks remain optional for visitors.

—Stay home if you’re sick. People 13 and older who are experiencing flu-like symptoms should not visit patients being treated at area hospitals. However, people who are seeking treatment at hospitals are not subject to the restriction but will be asked to wear a mask.