Ohio residents are experiencing a surge in respiratory illnesses, with schools closing due to outbreaks and hospitals diverting to manage patient influx. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), influenza cases are surging across the nation, with Ohio ranked as “very high” for flu-related hospitalizations.
Majority of flu-associated hospitalizations occur in southwest region of Ohio, where 65 cases were reported as of January 25. Central Ohio has seen 154 flu-associated hospitalizations during the same period. Hospitalizations due to flu are trending upward compared to the five-year average for the entire state.
Respiratory illnesses include RSV, COVID-19, and influenza. While some schools have closed, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Tri-Health, and UC Health reported no capacity issues. However, patients with critical or life-threatening conditions should expect long waits at emergency departments unless their child is in a severe condition.
Health officials recommend taking precautions to protect the elderly, who are vulnerable to respiratory illness. If you suspect your child has the flu but they’re breathing well, hydrating enough, and urinating normally, it’s not necessary for emergency care. Get your child vaccinated against flu now, don’t send kids to school or daycare when sick, and prioritize primary care over emergency room visits.
The Ohio Department of Health website shows that hospitalizations due to flu are trending upward compared to the five-year average for the entire state. Residents can access virtual urgent care services, which provide on-demand video visits with shorter wait times than traditional emergency departments. Staying informed and taking precautions is crucial during this time.
Source: https://www.wcpo.com/news/health/flu-rsv-covid-and-more-schools-close-some-hospitals-on-diversion-as-illnesses-impact-the-tri-state