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Hospitals Battle Respiratory Illnesses

Niagara Health says 85 patients had influenza, COVID or RSV before Christmas

Hospitals across Niagara are working through a tough respiratory illness season, with more cases of influenza, COVID-19 and RSV.

Niagara Health says this is putting greater demand on emergency departments, with patients needing longer stays and more complex care.

Dr. Karim Ali says just before Christmas, they had 85 patients, but now it's down to 47.

Niagara Health adds bed capacity has been maxed out, with some patients waiting in the emergency department for a bed, which adds to longer wait times.

Niagara Health reminds anyone needing medical attention to avoid the emergency room if it's not an emergency, such as sore throat, or medication questions.

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