Calling it the “multidemic” or “tridemic” Hamilton Hospitals are experiencing the convergence of three respiratory viruses – COVID-19, RSV and Influenza placing additional capacity pressures on Ontario hospitals, including St. Joe’s.
In a memo to staff, St Joes CEDO Melissa Farrell says it is not all bad news. Writing, “the most current infection numbers from Hamilton Public Health Services indicate COVID-19 infection rates are declining and Influenza infection rates have stabilized. This is a positive and hopeful direction, and suggests we may see at least a short-term reprieve from these respiratory illnesses forcing growing pressures.”
She adds, however,”it is essential that we remain vigilant in protecting against COVID-19 and the flu. Levels of infection for both of these viruses in the community are moderate – not low. Influenza hit earlier than expected, and predictions remain that COVID-19 numbers will climb into the New Year. At St. Joe’s, we are still facing COVID-19 outbreaks, most recently in our medicine units, complex care, Acute Mental Health, Satellite Health Facility, and Womankind.
And while COVID and Flu are moderating, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) that primarily affects children, has seen rising rates in recent weeks in Hamilton. Pediatric hospitals across the province, including Mac Kids have been experiencing the greatest pressures as they care for children hard hit by respiratory illnesses.
St Joes is accepting adolescent and additional adult patients to create space for other partner hospitals to focus on the pediatric population.
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