Effective immediately, Allina Health has begun implementing restricted visitor guidelines at all their hospitals. This is part of an effort to protect patients, visitors and staff from spreading influenza.

It is being requested that children younger than 5 not visit patients. People who are sick are asked to refrain from visiting patients in the hospital. Anyone with a cough or sore throat is asked to wear a mask while in the hospital.

Compassionate exceptions may be made based on the patient's condition and or prognosis. You are asked to discuss this with a nurse.

Allina Health hospitals in our area include the District One Hospital in Faribault and the Owatonna Hospital.

People can still get flu shots are various locations in our area. You may also walk in at Steele County Public Health in Owatonna and get a flu shot.

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