Respiratory Season Prompts Visitation Restrictions

The 2025/2026 Respiratory Season is underway, and Sierra View Medical Center is taking proactive measures to protect patients, visitors, and staff. To help prevent the spread of respiratory illnesses such as influenza (flu), respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and COVID-19, visiting restrictions are in place effective tomorrow, December 30, 2025, and will remain until the end of the respiratory season in late spring 2026.

Details of Visitation Restrictions:

WHAT: Visiting restrictions in Sierra View Medical Center’s Acute Care Units, Distinct Part/Skilled Nursing Facility (DP/SNF), and the Roger S. Good Cancer Treatment Center

WHO: Visitors under the age of 13

WHY: To protect individuals at higher risk of serious illness, including young children, adults over 65 years of age, and those with chronic conditions or weakened immune systems

WHEN: Beginning December 30, 2025, and lasting through late spring 2026

The annual restrictions are intended to protect vulnerable patients and reduce the spread of contagious respiratory viruses within the hospital and community. Visitors aged 13 and older may enter permitted areas, provided they are free of fever, cough, sore throat, or other respiratory symptoms.

How You Can Help Prevent the Spread of Respiratory Illnesses

• Stay home when sick: Avoid visiting the hospital or others if you have symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat, shortness of breath, or runny nose.
• Get vaccinated: Vaccines for flu, RSV, and COVID-19 are available through your healthcare provider or local health centers.
• Practice good hygiene: Wash your hands often, cover coughs and sneezes, and avoid touching your face.

If you need non-emergency medical care and cannot see your primary care provider, Sierra View Medical Center offers two community health centers:

• SVMC Academic Health Center: (559) 791-3907 | sierra-view.com/academichealthcenter
• Sierra View Community Health Center in Terra Bella (559) 544-6815 | sierra-view.com/terrabella

Sierra View Medical Center remains committed to the safety and well-being of our patients and community. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation during the 2025/2026 respiratory season.