DMC restricts young visitors at Metro Detroit hospitals amid rise in flu cases

DETROIT (FOX 2) - New visitor policies are being implemented at all Detroit Medical Center hospitals amid a rise in flu cases.

According to the health system, all patients are allowed two visitors at a time - but there are some restrictions on the age of visitors.

No visitors 12 and younger will be allowed on the impatient floors or observation units, even if they are related to the patient.

Visitors older than 13 who are not feeling well or are exhibiting flu symptoms are also asked to stay home.

"Flu cases have been increasing across the United States," said Dr. Teena Chopra, the Corporate Medical Director of Infection Prevention and Hospital Epidemiology and Antibiotic Stewardship for Detroit Medical Center, and professor of infectious diseases at Wayne State University. "According to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, Michigan influenza activity is also now increasing rapidly. In this period of increased influenza activity in the community, we made these changes for the safety and care of our patients."

According to data from the state, as of Dec. 28, 2024, Michigan had a "high respiratory activity level." Also, as of the same date, there have been 11 influenza-related pediatric deaths during the 2024-2025 flu season. No pediatric flu-related deaths have been reported in Michigan this flu season.