For the Tomahawk Leader
WISCONSIN – A spike in respiratory illnesses is straining capacity at healthcare facilities locally and nationally, Aspirus Health said on Thursday, Dec. 1.
A release from Aspirus said cases of COVID-19, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and influenza are on the rise following the Thanksgiving holiday.
“This is driving increased traffic and longer wait times across emergency departments, inpatient and outpatient settings at Aspirus and hospitals nationwide,” Aspirus stated. “Some of Aspirus’ walk-in clinics are reporting that 70% of patients are currently presenting with symptoms of respiratory illness.”
“We are starting to get very full across our hospitals, and our clinics are seeing a lot of people,” said Jeff Wicklander, Aspirus SVP and President of the Aspirus Central Region. “This is a national issue. We’re seeing the same issues with COVID-19, RSV and flu, like the rest of the country.”
As of this week, 35 states and regions are reporting either “high” or “very high” activity of influenza-like illnesses, according to CDC’s Weekly U.S. Influenza Surveillance Report (www.cdc.gov/flu/weekly/index.htm), as flu cases continue to surge throughout the country.
“It appears that we’re going to be in for a very tricky winter season as we go through influenza,” Wicklander stated. “We haven’t seen volumes this high for all three viruses for the past couple of years, so please be cognizant of that, and if you’re not feeling well, please isolate.”
Aspirus said members of the community can help their local healthcare facilities by using lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic:
- Understand whether you should contact your primary care provider or go to a walk-in clinic (www.aspirus.org/right-care) or the Emergency Department. Many health concerns can be addressed by your PCP. Consider contacting your clinic for appointment options.
- Utilize virtual options such as MyAspirus video visits (www.aspirus.org/myaspirus) and e-visits.
- Get vaccinated for both flu and COVID-19 if you’re eligible.
- Continue to practice safety measures, including hand hygiene, masking and social distancing as appropriate.
- Stay home and away from others if you or your children are not feeling well.
To learn more about Aspirus, visit www.aspirus.org.
