The University of Maryland Medical Center has joined other area hospitals in instituting a new visitor policy today in an effort to protect visitors, staff and patients from H1N1 influenza, or swine flu now widespread in the Baltimore region.

The new policy says:

+No one under 18 is allowed in inpatient units, unless they are parents of hospitalized children.

+There is a 2-person limit on visitors per patient.

+All visitors must check in at either the Greene Street or Gudelsky Reception Desk.

+Visits are not permitted by anyone with flu symptoms, including fever, cough or sore throat.

Officials say children and teenagers have been restricted because they are  among those most affected by the swine flu outbreaks and are at highest risk of complications and death.

Officials also say patient care leaders may alter the policy on an individual basis if it's in the best interests of patients. That could mean excluding visitors altogether or allowing additional visitors for compassionate care reasons.

The hospitals plan to put up posters announcing the new policy.

Associated Press photo