Release Date: 11/2/2009 Headline: Alamance Regional Medical Center implements new visitation restrictions   In a response to the worsening flu season Alamance Regional Medical Center will implement new visitation policies. Effective November 3, the hospital will no longer allow children in the facility unless it is for medical treatment, and will only allow two visitors per patient room at any given time. All visitors will be asked to check-in at a registration desk near the hospital’s visitor’s entrance where they will be given a visitor's pass. Regardless of their age, patients with flu-like symptoms will not be allowed to visit. “Several weeks ago we voluntarily asked the community to restrict visitation,” says John Currin, Alamance Regional president and CEO. “Unfortunately, we have seen an increase in patients with flu-like symptoms, but have not seen any decrease in visitors. We feel it is in the best interest of our patients, staff and community to take these steps at this time.” Additionally, patients with flu-like symptoms may need to reschedule outpatient tests and procedures if they are unrelated to their illness. All patients suffering from flu-like symptoms should check with their physician before they come to the hospital. They should also not bring children with them when they come in for an outpatient test or procedure. For more information on flu symptoms and treatment guidelines, please visit www.armc.com. Resources are available on the home page by clicking on the H1N1 information button.