Minnesota emergency departments are experiencing longer wait times as a surge in sickness, including influenza, RSV, COVID-19, and norovirus, puts an intense strain on hospitals. The “quad-demic” is affecting communities nationwide.
The Minnesota Hospital Association reports that the illnesses are causing unprecedented visits to hospitals and emergency departments. The group urges Minnesotans to stay home if they or their family members are sick and follow basic precautions such as frequent handwashing, covering coughs and sneezes, and cleaning frequently touched surfaces.
Hospitals like Allina Health and M Health Fairview are seeing increased patient volumes due to the four illnesses. Long wait times have been reported in urgent care locations, primary care clinics, and emergency departments. Healthcare experts recommend staying up-to-date on vaccinations, considering urgent care or telehealth options for non-emergency care, and having a primary care provider for family members.
The latest wastewater data shows a significant increase in COVID-19 cases, with hospitalizations up 50% over the past week. Flu hospitalizations have also risen to record levels. Healthcare officials stress that it’s too early to determine if this is the seasonal peak, but they encourage measures such as handwashing and mask-wearing to mitigate the spread of illnesses.
Source: https://kstp.com/kstp-news/top-news/minnesota-emergency-departments-seeing-longer-wait-times-amid-quad-demic