'Surge' of Flu Cases Reported at Englewood Hospital ER

A nationwide flu epidemic has prompted Englewood Hospital and Medical Center to issue temporary visitor restrictions, according to a hospital statement. 

Englewood's emergency room has seen a "surge" of flu-related visits and admissions, with the elderly hardest hit, the statement said. 

"In response to the growing threat, the Medical Center staff is working around the clock to protect the community, including stocking up on flu-related supplies and testing kits, vaccinating patients and employees and implementing temporary visitor restrictions at the hospital," the hospital said. 

Visitors under 18 are being barred from certain areas of the hospital, including the Intensive Care Unit and pediatrics department, the statement said. Sick visitors are also being asked to avoid visiting patients. 

Unlike other healthcare facilities, Englewood is not experiencing a vaccine shortage, officials said. 

State officials have reported high-levels of flu infection in Bergen County. 

Click to watch Englewood hospital's public service announcement on flu prevention.