(KLZA)-- Hospitals in Falls City and Auburn are taking precautions in regards to the Coronavirus and its possible impact on the area. 

Community Medical Center in Falls City is monitoring the spread of COVID – 19, coordinating with the Southeast District Health Department to properly identify and test patients as appropriate.  There have been no confirmed cases of COVID -19 at CMC.

The Nemaha County Hospital in Auburn announced Monday that no visitors will be allowed in the hospital and all new patients will be pre-screened for the virus at the hospital entrance. 

Pre-screening is a three-question assessment  asking the patient if they have traveled internationally within 14 days of their symptoms starting,  if they have come into close contact with someone wh has been diagnosed with COVID-19,  and if they have a fever greater than 100.4 or lower respiratory symptoms like shortness of breath or coughing.

The Emergency Room will be open for emergencies, but guests will not be allowed inside the hospital. Patients requiring assistance, or children with an emergency may have one guest who will be pre-screened.

Community Medical Center is implementing similar restrictions used during the height of influenza season.  

You are asked not to visit if you are experiencing respiratory symptoms such as fever, chills, cough sneezing or runny nose.  Children under 12 will not be allowed in unless ey are receiving care.  Visitors are limited to 1-2 per patient.

If you are experiencing any of the COVID-19 symptoms,  you are asked to alert staff at the hospitals if you have been exposed to the Coronavirus. The Nemaha County Hospital is asking patients to call ahead regarding symptoms or recent travel before going to the hospital or emergency room.