School is back in session for many area children. The school year traditionally brings an increase in illnesses to the classrooms and into our homes. This is of particular concern due to the continued spread of the H1N1 virus, also known as the swine flu, says Karen Krieger, a spokesman with Lee memroial health System.

She said there is a strong concern that a large number of local residents will be affected by H1N1 during the normal flu season, occurring later this year.

In preparation for the increase in traffic and potential spread of germs, Lee Memorial Health System will implement a revised version of the visitation policies at Cape Coral Hospital, Lee Memorial Hospital, Gulf Coast Medical Center, The Rehabilitation Hospital, HealthPark Medical Center, and The Children’s Hospital of Southwest Florida.

She said these temporary precautions, meant to keep our community as healthy as possible, are as follows:

* Children under the age of 12 will not have access to adult critical care areas of the hospitals, the NICU (neonatal intensive care unit), and the PICU (pediatric intensive care unit).

* Patients, families and visitors are strongly encouraged not to bring children under the age of 12 to the hospitals for visitation.

* If you have flu-like symptoms, it is highly recommended you wear a mask while in public. If seeking medical treatment, inform the medical staff immediately that you may have the flu.

It’s important to remember that contracting the swine flu is not necessarily a reason to panic. The public is encouraged to stay informed and educated about the H1N1 virus.

Additional good health practices to help prevent the spread of germs include washing your hands with soap and water for at least 15 seconds; cough into a tissue or sleeve; avoid large crowds and enclosed spaces when possible; and stay home from work or school if you are feeling ill, Krieger said.