Due to the increase in flu activity several area hospitals continue to implement temporary, age-based visitor restrictions.
UNC Health Blue Ridge & Caldwell have implemented restrictions for visitors 11 years and younger in inpatient and waiting areas. Special visitation privilege for those 11 years or younger may be allowed under exceptional circumstances during this period
Catawba Valley Medical Center in Hickory also continues to implement visitation restrictions for children 13 years and younger. In addition, visitors are limited to one per patient in the Emergency Department and two per patient in all other areas of the hospital, including inpatient and Day Surgery.
Frye Medical Center in Hickory currently does not have visitation restrictions in place.
UNC Health (Blue Ridge & Caldwell) Notice Effective January 5th, 2026
Due to recent increasing trends of respiratory illness in our communities, UNC Health will implement temporary, age-based visitor restrictions for all inpatient and waiting areas throughout its inpatient hospitals.
These measures are being introduced to ensure the safety and well-being of patients, staff, and visitors during this period.
Visitor Age Restrictions
- Visitors who are 11 years old or younger will not be permitted in any inpatient areas or waiting areas.
- Individuals over the age of 11 who are exhibiting respiratory symptoms are also prohibited from entering inpatient areas and waiting areas.
Please note: Patient visitation by a child 11 years old or younger may be allowed by area leadership under exceptional circumstances during this restriction period. Special visiting privileges may be considered for situations such as visits to terminally ill patients, critical care scenarios, or urgent admissions. All exceptions will be evaluated and decided on a case-by-case basis.
Catawba Valley Health – Hickory: Notice Effective 12/30/2025
With the increase in respiratory illness, we are taking precautions to protect patients, visitors, and employees.
Children under the age of 13 are not permitted to visit patients at CVHS. Children under the age limit should only visit the hospital if they are seeking medical attention. Siblings are permitted on the Birthing Center only, with no age restrictions. Exceptions may be made in special circumstances, such as visiting a family member who is in end-of-life care but must be arranged with the patient’s care team.
In addition, visitors are limited to one per patient in the Emergency Department and two per patient in all other areas of the hospital, including inpatient and Day Surgery.
Anyone with a cough, cold, fever or sore throat — no matter their age — is asked to refrain from visiting hospital patients as well.