News

Flu spike forces visitor restrictions at Pardee

By Bill Moss, Published: December 30, 2025

The increasing number of influenza cases and other respiratory illnesses in the region prompted UNC Health Pardee to implement visitor restrictions in all inpatient areas at Pardee Hospital beginning today. 

During this time, the following restrictions will be in place:

• Limit of two visitors per patient
• Visitors must be 11 years or older. Children are more susceptible to infections and can be ill without obvious symptoms. 
• Individuals should avoid visiting the hospital if they have respiratory symptoms or any of the following: headache, muscle aches, cough, fever, sore throat or a runny or stuffy nose

“Our top priority is always the health and safety of our community,” said Dr. Greg McCarty, chief medical officer, UNC Health Pardee. “These temporary restrictions are necessary to prevent further spread of respiratory illnesses and ensure our healthcare providers can continue to deliver the highest level of care.”

While wearing a mask remains optional at UNC Health Pardee, it is strongly encouraged during periods of increased flu-like illnesses. Anyone experiencing flu-like symptoms is encouraged to seek care at an urgent care location rather than the emergency department or hospital, unless symptoms are severe or life-threatening. 

All visitors should use hand hygiene before and after visiting patients and entering or leaving the hospital. Alcohol-based hand rub dispensers are available throughout the building. For more information on visiting policies or the latest updates on the hospital’s response to respiratory illnesses, visit pardeehospital.org.

Mission Health announced on Wednsesday that its hospitals and affiliates will be temporarily limiting visitation to two visitors per patient, and only those age 13 and older will be permitted to visit at this time in order to protect our most vulnerable patients. Exceptions to the restriction will be considered in cases such as end-of-life or pediatric patients.

The precaution was implemented at all Mission Health hospitals including Mission Hospital in Asheville, CarePartners in Asheville, Mission Hospital McDowell in Marion, Transylvania Regional Hospital in Brevard, Blue Ridge Regional Hospital in Spruce Pine, Angel Medical Center in Franklin and Highlands-Cashiers Hospital in Highlands.