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Niagara Health Says ICUs Remain Stable Despite Jump in Childhood Respiratory Illnesses

Niagara Health doctor urging the public to catch up on flu and COVID-19 shots.

Niagara Health says the situation at its ICUs remains stable. 

While Ontario Health has ordered general hospitals to accept kids aged 14 and older who need critical care, Niagara Health says it hasn't needed to do so yet. 

Dr. Karim Ali, Medical Director, Infection Prevention and Control and Director, Division of Infectious Diseases at Niagara Health, says it's young children who have been hit hardest with respiratory illnesses. 

"What has started happening, the number of RSV and influenza viruses, especially in young children, has started to go up." 

He says the best thing you can do to prevent yourself and your family from getting sick is getting your flu and COVID-19 shots and wearing a mask when possible. 

Currently, there are 58 Niagara Health patients with COVID-19, 18 of which are being treated primarily for the virus. 

The full interview with Dr. Ali is available below. 

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