MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Children's Hospital of Wisconsin says starting January 9, no child under the age of 12 will be allowed to visit in any inpatient care area.

According to the hospital's Chief Medical Officer Mike Gutzeit, the temporary restriction is to help prevent the spread of the influenza virus and other viral illnesses and to protect the health of our patients, families, and staff. Children's Hospital says the visitor restriction will be implemented at both the Milwaukee and Fox Valley hospitals as well as the Surgicenter. 

The policy does NOT include clinic appointments or emergency department visits. Families with children under the age of 12 may still seek medical attention at Children's Hospital clinics, Urgent Care locations, or Emergency Department.

Children's Hospital says the visitor restriction will be assessed regularly to determine how long it will be in place. Updates will be provided at chw.org/restriction.