Indianapolis Hospitals Set Visitor Restrictions Amid Flu Surge

Hospitals across Indianapolis and Marion County are preparing to implement temporary visitor restrictions as flu and RSV activity continues to climb in central Indiana.

Why Flu And RSV Activity Is Rising In Central Indiana

Health officials say influenza-like illness reported by patients visiting hospital emergency departments is on the rise, with the highest activity currently seen among infants and children. RSV cases are also increasing, particularly in children ages 4 and younger.

Who Is Requesting The Hospital Visitor Restrictions

The visitor restrictions are being requested by Dr. Virginia A. Caine, Director and Chief Medical Officer of the Marion County Public Health Department, as part of a coordinated effort to protect patients, staff, and visitors.

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What Visitors Should Know Before Coming To The Hospital

Under the temporary policy, visitors who are experiencing symptoms of illness will not be permitted to visit. Symptoms include:

fever
cough
headache
muscle or joint pain
sore throat
runny nose

Visitors under the age of 18 will also be restricted, though some hospitals may allow exceptions depending on individual circumstances. Hospital officials encourage anyone planning to visit a patient to check the facility’s website or call ahead to confirm specific policies and exceptions.

Which Indianapolis Area Hospitals Are Participating

Hospitals participating in the visitor restrictions include Community Health Network, Franciscan Health Indianapolis, Ascension St. Vincent, Indiana University Health, and Sidney and Lois Eskenazi Hospital.

The policy is intended to protect vulnerable patients during a time when respiratory viruses are especially active. Hospitals will continue to provide masks for visitors and encourage frequent hand washing and proper cough etiquette.

Why Vaccinations Matter During Respiratory Virus Season

Health leaders are also strongly urging eligible individuals to stay up to date on vaccinations for flu, RSV, and COVID 19. Dr. Caine emphasized that flu vaccination remains an important layer of protection, especially for pregnant women. RSV monoclonal antibodies are recommended for infants, and Tdap vaccination during pregnancy is advised to help protect newborns from whooping cough.

According to Eskenazi Health and the Marion County Public Health Department, the restrictions will begin during the week of December 22, 2025. Patients and visitors are encouraged to talk with their healthcare providers about which vaccines are appropriate for them as respiratory illness activity increases across the region.