South Dakota's three largest hospital systems are asking kids 18 years and younger not to visit hospital patients and nursing home residents to help reduce the risk of spreading the H1N1 flu virus.

Avera Health of Sioux Falls, Sanford Health of Sioux Falls and Regional Health of Rapid City are also asking residents to stay away from facilities if they're ill and limit visitors to family and clergy.

Dr. James Keegan, Regional Health's chief medical officer, says the joint recommendations are aimed at protecting those most at risk from the virus.

South Dakota Health Secretary Doneen Hollingsworth says the
recommendations are guidelines, and the department will not be
enforcing or requiring facilities to follow them.