MADISON (WKOW) -- UW Health is updating its visitor policy amid the threat of COVID-19, or coronavirus, transmission.
According to a press release, the changes go into effect Wednesday and are designed to ensure both patient and visitor safety.
Only one visitor will be allowed at University Hospital and UW Health at the American Center. Two visitors per patient will be allowed at American Family Children's Hospital. Siblings are not allowed at the children's hospital.
Family members are also not allowed in the children's hospital operating rooms.
The hospital system said it doesn't want the patient's primary visitor changing frequently, and suggests that that visitor stay the same within a 24-hour period of time.
The exceptions to these new policies are end-of-life situations, but multiple visitors are only allowed if they are without symptoms.
Large gatherings of 50 or more, including tours and group meetings, are not allowed until further notice at the hospitals. University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health sites are exceptions.
Patient groups for patients age 60 are also suspended.
Volunteering is suspended until further notice.
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