Flu Season Hits Hard: Hospitals Step Up Measures

Flu cases are on the rise across the country, and Hampton Roads hospitals are taking action. Starting now, anyone showing flu-like symptoms must wear a mask when entering healthcare facilities. This rule applies to emergency rooms, doctor's offices, and urgent care clinics run by major hospital systems in the area. The spike in flu cases is real. In Virginia's eastern region, flu-related emergency room visits made up nearly 8% of all visits last week. That's a slight drop from the previous week's peak, but still a significant number. Nationwide, flu cases jumped by nearly a third in just one week.Hospitals are feeling the pressure. Sentara Leigh Hospital, for instance, has seen a 25% increase in daily emergency room visits. The whole hospital system is up by almost 20%. Staff are working hard to keep up, but the extra traffic means longer wait times and delayed admissions. It's not just the flu causing trouble. COVID-19 and RSV are also making the rounds. But flu is the main culprit. Hospitals are urging people to take precautions. Get vaccinated, wash your hands, stay home if you're sick, and cover your coughs and sneezes. If you're not feeling well, see your regular doctor or go to an urgent care clinic instead of the emergency room. Visitors should also be careful. If you're feeling sick, it's best to postpone visits to friends or family in the hospital. This helps keep everyone safe.