Joseph Brant Hospital is urging local residents to take health precautions as it battles with lengthy emergency wait times.
The hospital posted an update to social media on Friday, Dec. 27, informing residents that the emergency department has been dealing with higher-than-normal wait times and patient volume over the holidays, which has been caused by seasonal respiratory viruses and social gatherings.
“We are seeing consistently high volumes and increased acuity during the holiday and post-holiday season,” Maria Babbage, a spokesperson for Joseph Brant Hospital, said. “Respiratory and other common viruses such as influenza, COVID-19, RSV and norovirus spread more easily during the holidays, as there are more social group settings where people are in close proximity. Norovirus is very contagious and spreads easily through human-to-human contact and food, such as touching contaminated surfaces. Joseph Brant Hospital staff and physicians are working tirelessly and doing their best to ensure that patients receive safe, timely and high quality care. We appreciate everyone’s patience and understanding.”
The hospital has recommended that residents only visit the emergency department if the issue requires urgent medical attention and to keep up good hygiene, stay home if experiencing symptoms of illness, keep up with vaccinations, follow public health measures and wear a mask to limit the spread of respiratory illnesses.
