Flu and Stomach Bug: Hospitals Impose Visitor Ban - Lusatia hospitals halt visits as viral outbreaks overwhelm wards

Two hospitals in Lusatia have stopped most visits after a sharp rise in viral infections. The Naemi Wilke Diakonie Hospital in Guben and the Lusatia Clinic in Forst are both affected. Strict rules now apply to anyone hoping to enter the wards.

The measures come as influenza and gastrointestinal illnesses spread rapidly through the region. Health officials warn that even recovered patients can remain contagious for days after symptoms fade.

The Naemi Wilke Diakonie Hospital in Guben first banned visitors on January 30. The restriction will stay in place until at least February 7. Meanwhile, the Lusatia Clinic in Forst has limited visits until February 6. Both sites will only allow entry in 'justified exceptional cases' and with prior approval.

Patients can still receive personal items delivered to their wards. But general visiting has been halted to slow the spread of infection. The hospitals report severe outbreaks of flu and stomach bugs among staff and patients.

Medical experts are urging stronger hand hygiene and reduced contact with sick people. Recent national data shows flu cases holding steady at around 20,700 lab-confirmed infections per week. The dominant strain, Subclade K of Influenza A(H3N2), accounts for 65% of tested viruses. While Lusatia's specific figures aren't available, the regional trend mirrors the wider increase in respiratory illnesses.

The visitor bans aim to protect vulnerable patients during the infection surge. Both hospitals will review their policies in early February. Until then, only essential visits will be permitted under strict conditions.

National flu levels remain stable but high, with no sign of a decline. Health authorities continue to monitor the situation closely.