ROANOKE, Va. (WSET) -- Carilion Clinic is taking action to protect children from COVID-19.

Beginning Tuesday, April 7 at 7 p.m., Carilion Children’s NICU will be closed to visitors, including parents.

They are working to help parents maintain their connections with their children through video technology and to provide training for parents when their children are near discharge.

In addition, exceptions will be made for children who are near death.

This was a difficult decision to make, and they will welcome families back to the NICU as soon as the situation is safe for parents, their children and their caregivers.

“We did so because we know we need to protect the vulnerable babies, our community and our healthcare providers," said Dr. Dunsmore, the Chair of Carilion Children’s Hospital.

Family members are able to use a cell phone or computer to have 24/7 access to their child over Carillion’s digital platform.

Carilion announced they have a new NICU virtual visitation liaison position in place to help parents in getting this technology setup and serve as a point of contact for parents.

The technology allows parents to connect with their baby at any time.

Carilion said it was a very difficult decision to make and said they recognize how

important it is for parents to bond with their infants.