Children's Wisconsin releases COVID-19 guidelines, limits number of patient visitors

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Children's Wisconsin announced Friday, March 13, the hospital is actively preparing for coronavirus (COVID-19), in cooperation with state and local health authorities. 

According to a news release, based on the spread of the disease in affected areas, COVID-19 causes only mild symptoms in otherwise healthy children. Children with chronic medical conditions should exercise additional caution and consult with their doctor for guidance.

Children's Wisconsin said families should only go to the emergency department if a child is experiencing a medical emergency or is directed to go there by a doctor. 

If you believe your child has been exposed to COVID-19 or is showing symptoms (fever, cough, shortness of breath), call your doctor’s office for guidance OR visit Children’s Online Urgent Care for a video visit with a doctor. Children who are experiencing symptoms should avoid contact with at-risk populations, including elderly family members and individuals with other serious health conditions.

Children's Wisconsin enhanced visitor restrictions for clinic appointments and hospital visits to reduce the risk of exposure. In the primary and specialty care clinics, only one caregiver (and no siblings) will be allowed to accompany a child to an appointment. In the Surgicenter and hospitals in Milwaukee and Neenah, patients can only have two individuals over the age of 12 visit.

A reminder Children's Wisconsin is not a testing site for coronavirus. 

For more information, CLICK HERE.