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CHRISTUS has closed to visitors amid a surge in local COVID-19 cases -
Health officials recommend frequent hand washing
CHRISTUS facilities throughout Southeast Texas have closed their doors to visitors, with two exceptions, due to the surge in COVID-19 cases in the area, according to an Aug. 8 news release. After confirming 618 cases last week, according to data from the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS), Jefferson County added 155 positives over the weekend ending Aug. 8.
"As CHRISTUS Southeast Texas Health System continues to respond to the latest surge in COVID-19 infections, it is important that we keep the health and safety of our patients, associates and communities a top priority," officials announced. "We continue to carefully consider and evaluate policies that are critical to our mission and support the high-quality care we provide to all patients, no matter their medical need."
Effective Monday, August 9, no visitors are permitted in CHRISTUS Southeast Texas facilities, according to the release. The only exceptions for this visitor policy change are one support person allowed for our labor and delivery patients, as well as end of life situations. These changes help CHRISTUS to maintain safe environments for their patients, visitors and associates.
“While we always stand ready to care for our community, this change became vitally necessary today as we continue to face a rapidly rising number of patients in the hospital. Today, we have 77 COVID patients receiving care in our main hospital. Of those, only 4 have been vaccinated. It’s so important that those who are able to get vaccinated do so, as soon as possible,” said Dr. Waqar Ahmad, vice president of Medical Affairs for CHRISTUS Southeast Texas Health System.
"We encourage our communities to continue these simple steps to help prevent the spread of COVID-19: Get vaccinated, wear a mask, wash your hands often, practice social distancing and stay home if you are sick."