The VA Connecticut Healthcare System today announced temporary visitor restrictions due to increased flu activity in the state.

The policy covers the VA facilities in West Haven and Newington as well as the clinic in New London. At the outpatient clinics in Newington and New London, patients and their companions are asked not to come if they have any flu-like symptoms, including cough, fever, sore throat and body aches. At the VA hospital in West Haven, visits to patients by anyone under 18 will not be permitted, including to visits to mental health units. Visitors under 18 without flu symptoms will, however be allowed to visit a family member who is a resident of the Community Living Center.

The VA also asks that anyone entering and leaving its facilities use hand sanitizer, available at the main entrances. Any visitor who does exhibit flu-like symptoms while at a VA facility will be given a surgical mask, asked to wash hands and leave.

The VA encourages everyone to get a flu shot. Veterans enrolled with VA Connecticut can ask for the vaccine at their next outpatient appointment or call to make arrangements.