Public Health Advisory: Meritus Health Urges All Visitors to Mask Up

Meritus Health is urging community members to take proactive steps to protect themselves and others as influenza, RSV and other viral illnesses continue to circulate at elevated levels across the region.

Healthcare teams throughout Meritus facilities are seeing increased cases of flu and RSV, particularly among young children, older adults and those with underlying health conditions. To help slow the spread of illness and protect vulnerable patients, Meritus Health is strongly encouraging all visitors to wear a mask while inside Meritus facilities, especially if they are feeling unwell or experiencing symptoms.

Steps the Community Can Take to Help Stop the Spread

Meritus Health recommends the following actions to reduce the risk of getting sick or spreading illness to others:

• Wash hands frequently with soap and water or use hand sanitizer
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick
• If you are sick, stay home whenever possible
• Wear a mask if you must be around others while symptomatic, including when visiting a healthcare facility

Visitors experiencing symptoms such as fever or chills, cough, congestion, sore throat, body aches, vomiting or diarrhea are strongly encouraged to delay non-urgent visits or use virtual care options instead.

When It’s Time to See a Doctor

While many viral illnesses can be managed at home, it’s important to seek medical care if symptoms worsen or do not improve. Community members should contact a healthcare provider if they experience:

• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• Persistent high fever
• Chest pain
• Dehydration or inability to keep fluids down
• Symptoms that worsen after initially improving

Parents should seek care promptly for infants and young children who show signs of breathing difficulty, dehydration or lethargy.

Treatment and Care Options at Meritus

Meritus Health offers a range of treatment options to meet patients where they are, including:

• Primary Care and Pediatric offices for routine and follow-up care
• Urgent Care and Fast Track services for non-life-threatening conditions
• MeritusNow virtual visits, allowing patients to consult with a provider from home
• Emergency care for serious or life-threatening symptoms

“Our goal is to ensure patients receive the right care at the right time, while also protecting those who are most vulnerable,” said Anand Budi, M.D., Chief Medical Officer at Meritus Health. “Simple steps like frequently washing your hands, staying home when sick and wearing a mask can make a meaningful difference during this peak illness season.”

Meritus Health will continue to monitor illness trends in the community and adjust recommendations as needed. For more information on symptoms, care options or current health advisories, visit MeritusHealth.com.