UK HealthCare announced it will restrict visitors in its hospitals and clinics until COVID-19 is no longer a threat.

According to a press release, every patient is now only allowed one visitor. Visitors must be 18 years or older and are permitted in patient areas starting immediately. It is advised children do not come unless in dire circumstances, such as end-of-life and other extreme situations regarding UK Healthcare patients.

The visitation restrictions come after another patient diagnosed with COVID-19 was admitted to the UK Chandler Hospital late Tuesday night, UK Healthcare officials announced Wednesday at a media briefing.

UK HealthCare has placed precautionary rules to prevent the spread of infection. The rules include:

• Visitors must remain in the patient’s room at all times except for bathroom breaks and food purchases.
• A limit on the number of personal items visitors bring into the hospital.
• After visitation is over, visitors must leave the hospital and not linger inside the building.
• If presenting symptoms of respiratory illness, visitors will be screened prior to entering UK HealthCare buildings. Anyone showing signs of illness will not be able to visit.
• Visitors must wash their hands or use hand sanitizer every time they enter or exit a patient room.

To help family and friends stay connected with loved ones in the hospitals, UK HealthCare recommends using personal phones, computers and tablets.