Mercy asks visitors to not come to its facilities in wake of coronavirus

TOLEDO, Ohio — Mercy Health is now asking visitors to not come to its facilities in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic.

"For the health of our patients, visitors, health care providers and communities, we ask that people do not visit our facilities," Mercy officials said. "For mother/baby and pediatric patients, visitors are limited to a designated partner or primary caretaker/guardian (only one at a time). Exceptions will be considered based on end-of-life situations or when a visitor is essential for the patient's care.

"We recognize that this can be disappointing to our visitors, patients and residents, and we apologize for any inconvenience this may cause you or your family. The health of you and our patients is our top priority. The health system remains aligned with current and recent CDC guidelines, which can be found at: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/specific-groups/high-risk-complications.html"

RELATED: Local hospital systems limit visitors to their facilities due to coronavirus

RELATED: Mich. governor orders temporary ban on gatherings and events of more than 250 people

RELATED: ProMedica: No confirmed coronavirus cases at its hospitals

RELATED: VERIFY: What does it mean for a disease to be a pandemic?

RELATED: Toledo library closes locations for coronavirus precautions

On Thursday, Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine signed an order Thursday afternoon prohibiting mass gatherings of 100 people or more in the state of Ohio in an effort to stop the spread of COVID-19. The governor also ordered schools to close for three weeks starting on Monday.  

Facts not fear: Putting COVID-19 into context

WTOL 11’s coverage of the coronavirus is rooted in Facts, not Fear. Visit wtol.com/coronavirus for comprehensive coverage, find out what you need to know about northwest Ohio and southeast Michigan specifically, learn more about the symptoms, and keep tabs on the cases around the world here. Have a question? Text it to us at 419-248-1100.

Protect yourself from coronavirus

• Cover: Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.
• Dispose: Throw used tissues in a lined can. 
• Wash hands: Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing; going to the bathroom; and before eating or preparing food. 
• Hand sanitizer: If soap and water are not readily available, use and alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol, covering all surfaces of your hands and rubbing them together until they feel dry. 
• Avoid touching: Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.