PORTERVILLE, Calif. (KSEE/KGPE) - Children visitors under the age of 13 will not be able to enter certain areas of the Sierra View Medical Center (SVMC) due to what officials describe as respiratory disease season. According to officials, the 2024-2025 Influenza (flu), Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), and COVID-19 season is now in full swing. As part of the hospital's practices to protect patients, staff, and the community, visitation restrictions are being implemented for visitors under the age of 13. Officials say these restrictions will take place at the SVMC Acute Care Units, the Distinct Part Skilled Nursing Facility (DP/SNF), and the Cancer Treatment Center. The restrictions, according to hospital officials, will help to reduce the risk of flu, RSV, and COVID-19 transmission within the hospital and the broader community. The restrictions will begin on Sep. 30 until the conclusion of the respiratory season in late spring 2025, officials say. Teens age 13 and up can enter the hospital.