In response to an early flu season, Vidant Beaufort Hospital has set restrictions on hospital visitors.

“Due to the high number of people with the flu in our community, we are temporarily changing our family presence and visitation practices for patient safety as well as the safety of visitors,” reads a press release issued Wednesday by Vidant Health.

Starting Thursday, all Vidant hospitals will limit visitors to those 12 years of age and older, who do not have symptoms of cold, flu, diarrhea, vomiting or headaches. One exception is that healthy children under the age of 12 can visit a healthy newborn sibling; other exceptions may be made in special circumstances, with prior approval from a patient’s health care team.

According to Beaufort County Health Department Director Jim Madson, the flu season is in full swing much earlier this year. There have been 10 deaths due to flu so far this season, and with the exception of one person, all of the flu victims have been over the age of 65.

“I can’t tell you if (the flu season is) going to be worse than last year or the year before, but I can tell you it’s happening earlier this year,” Madson said. “We’re about two months ahead of what it looked like last year, and we’re about a month ahead of what it looked like two years ago.”

By setting visitor restrictions, the hospital is attempting to protect patients from being exposed to the flu virus, and limit the spread of the disease, which everyone can do by observing the following, Madson said.

“Make sure you wash your hands frequently. Avoid congested areas where people are sick. If you are sick you should stay home. Get plenty of rest. Vaccinate; it’s still not too late to vaccinate — those are the big ones,” Madson said.

Vidant Health also recommends keeping sick children home from school, not sharing cups or utensils and covering the mouth when coughing or sneezing.

“Having friends and family visit our patients certainly is important to us. However, during flu season it is imperative that we focus on protecting our community and helping our patients stay healthy,” said Vidant Beaufort President Harvey Case. “Remember to follow the prevention tips, most importantly washing your hands frequently.”