FARMINGTON — For the safety of the babies on the Franklin Memorial Hospital Maternal and Child Health Unit, no children under the age of 12 are allowed on the unit this flu season, unless they are healthy siblings. All other visitors must also be feeling well and should wash their hands before and after entering the unit.

“We need to protect our vulnerable patients,” said MaryAnne Goodwin, unit manager. “Because newborns cannot be vaccinated for flu, they should not have any unnecessary exposure to people with respiratory or other contagious illnesses.”

In a recent update, the Maine Centers for Disease Control reports that the flu is now widespread. The CDC states that it is especially important this year for everyone over the age of six months to get vaccinated as this year’s strain is particularly aggressive. The vast majority of circulating influenza in Maine and nationwide is influenza A/H3. Influenza A/H3 seasons tend to be more severe and to affect mature adults and children.

For additional information, contact the MCH unit at 779-2295.