WakeMed Lifts Visitation Restrictions

Children of all ages welcome back in hospital units as respiratory illness declines.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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Effective Monday, February 16, WakeMed is lifting its visitation restrictions that had been in place for the past two months. Children of all ages who are free of contagious illnesses are now welcome in all hospital nursing units and patient care areas across the Raleigh-based healthcare system.

Why it matters

Visitation restrictions help reduce the risk of infection for vulnerable hospital patients. WakeMed's decision to return to normal visitation status signals a decrease in the prevalence of respiratory illnesses in the local community.

The details

The annual seasonal visitor restrictions were implemented in December 2025 to help protect patients. With a decline in respiratory illnesses, WakeMed is now welcoming back children of all ages who are free of contagious illnesses to its hospital units and patient care areas.

  • The visitation restrictions were implemented in December 2025.
  • The restrictions are being lifted effective Monday, February 16, 2026.

The players

WakeMed

A healthcare system based in Raleigh, North Carolina.

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The takeaway

WakeMed's decision to lift visitation restrictions signals an improvement in community health conditions, allowing the hospital to return to normal operations and accommodate more visitors for the benefit of patients.