(Visitor restrictions)…They were announced earlier this week at Pioneers Memorial Hospital.

Thursday El Centro Regional Medical Center announced restrictions at their hospital. ECRMC said visiting restrictions take effect immediately. Hospital officials say they are taking steps to prevent the spread of flu to its patients by restricting visitation to one family member per patient and no one under the age of 16. ECRMC is also asking visitors with a cold, cough or fever not to visit patients or accompany them to visits at the clinics. Officials say the move is to protect the safety of patients and staff, however, they say individuals who need medical attention for flu-like symptoms should continue to seek care from ECRMC or its outpatient clinics located in El Centro or Calexico. Those seeking care must wear a mask while at any ECRMC facility. Masks are available at entrance desks.