Mayo Clinic Health System on Monday announced new visitor restrictions out of an effort to protect patients, staff and communities.

Starting Monday, hospitalized patients will only be able to have two visitors per patient, according to a press release. For all other patients, one visitor per patient will be allowed. Visitors are being asked to limit the number of visits.

Beginning this week, visitors will be screened for respiratory illness and those who screen positive will be prohibited from visiting.

Exceptions may include visitors for end-of-life patients, pediatric patients and patients who have language barriers. This policy will remain in place until further notice. Visitors who are ill should not come to visit patients.

The release encouraged patients and families to exercise social distancing as a means of protecting themselves and their family members. It also encouraged family members to consider other ways to connect with their loved ones via phones or other devices.

“We understand that these restrictions will be difficult for patients and their loved ones,” the release stated. “We are taking these necessary steps to protect our patients and staff.”

Visit the Mayo Clinic Health System COVID-19 online resource site for contact information and the most up-to-the-minute information about COVID-19 and what to do if you have symptoms, unrelated health care needs, or need to visit someone at the clinic or hospital.