Flu is increasing, and Hamilton Health Sciences urges everyone to get protected against seasonal viruses
HAMILTON, ON – With the holiday season approaching and viral illnesses on the rise, experts at Hamilton Health Sciences (HHS) are urging everyone to take steps to protect themselves and their loved ones.
“We’re seeing the anticipated increase in positive flu cases admitted to hospital,” says Dr. Dominik Mertz, infectious disease specialist at HHS. “We are expecting flu activity to peak in the next two to four weeks, and flu as well as COVID shots are available to protect you and your loved ones.”
Over the past two weeks the number of positive flu cases at HHS has more than doubled, and numbers are expected to continue this trajectory. COVID positive cases have increased slightly, and RSV remains steady – for now.
“We are seeing lots and lots of Flu A in kids with prolonged fevers and adults with respiratory distress,” says Dr. Alim Pardhan, Chief of Emergency Medicine at HHS. “These viral cases add to already busy emergency departments. While our teams are working tirelessly to meet the needs of all patients, families may notice longer wait times.”
HHS hospitals have been operating at or above full capacity in recent weeks. As of today (December 10):
- Hamilton General Hospital – 106%
- Juravinski Hospital – 111%
- West Lincoln Memorial Hospital – 100%
- McMaster Children’s Hospital (MCH) – 103%
Another virus of concern for infants and toddlers is RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus)
Last year, HHS’ McMaster Children’s Hospital (MCH) and West Lincoln Memorial Hospital (WLMH) offered RSV prevention medication clinics, and these clinics are back this season.
“While we aren’t seeing a major rise in RSV yet, it’s important to stay ahead of the virus to protect infants and toddlers,” says Dr. Jeffrey Pernica, infectious disease specialist at MCH. “Last year, our clinics helped immunize more than 2,000 babies, which likely contributed to fewer hospitalizations for RSV. We hope to keep that momentum going.”
The pediatric emergency department at MCH is also feeling the strain
“The winter viral season makes the pediatric emergency department busier because more patients are sick and space is limited,” says Dr. Nathalie Schindler, medical director of pediatric emergency at MCH. “When beds in the hospital are full, admitted patients stay in the emergency department giving us less space to see patients that come through our doors. Patients may notice an increase in wait times as we enter our busiest season.”
What you can do:
- Get your flu and COVID vaccines as soon as possible.
- Practice good hand hygiene and stay home when sick.
- Parents of infants and toddlers should speak to their health care provider about RSV prevention options.
More information on the HHS RSV clinics can be found here.
More information on healthcare options this viral season can be found here.
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