Lima hospitals warn of high flu activity

Yahoo

06-02-2025

Feb. 5—LIMA — Lima doctors are asking the public to take precautionary measures as emergency departments and urgent cares report record patient volumes for flu and other respiratory illnesses.
Allen County Health Commissioner Brandon Fischer said roughly 60 Allen County residents were hospitalized with influenza in January. Another 30 have been hospitalized with flu-related illness five days into February, Fischer said during a press conference Wednesday.
"We're on track to surpass (January levels) by the time next week hits," Fischer said.
Mercy Health-St. Rita's Medical Center, Lima Memorial Health System, Allen County Public Health and the Auglaize and Putnam County health departments issued a joint warning Wednesday asking residents to take preventative measures and seek the appropriate level of care so health care facilities are not overwhelmed.
Already, health officials say the uptick in flu activity means patients may experience longer than usual wait times at the emergency department, urgent care or primary care.
"As we are seeing exceptionally high cases of Influenza A and other respiratory illnesses, it's crucial for residents to take flu symptoms seriously and seek care at the appropriate level so we are able to continue delivering the right level of care at the right time, without overloading our systems," said Dr. Matthew Owens, chief clinical officer for Mercy Health-Lima, said in a news release.
"While we are experiencing record numbers of patients across our emergency departments, urgent cares and primary care offices, we remain committed to providing the absolute best care for our community," Owens said. "We appreciate your patience as you may experience longer than usual wait times during peak season."
Health officials say residents who suspect they may have the flu or another respiratory illness should stay home, avoid visiting loved ones in the hospital or long-term care facilities and consider wearing a mask indoors to prevent others from becoming sick.
Residents should get their annual flu vaccine and wash their hands regularly as well, they said.
Allen County Public Health's wastewater surveillance system, an early detection measure intended to warn hospitals and other facilities of potential outbreaks, detected a 500% increase in influenza last week, Fischer said Wednesday.
Lima hospitals reported an increase in emergency department and urgent care visits two days later, he said.
Mild flu symptoms such as fever, cough, congestion and body aches can be treated by a primary care doctor, urgent care or telehealth provider, health officials said. Anyone exhibiting serious signs of illness such as trouble breathing, chest pain, confusion or high fever who does not respond to medication should seek immediate help from an emergency department.
Health officials say high-risk patients such as young children, older adults, pregnant women and anyone with underlying health conditions should consult with their doctor at the first sign of illness.
"By working together, we can reduce the strain on emergency services and ensure that everyone receives timely and effective treatment," said Dr. Susan Kaufman, vice president and chief medical officer of Lima Memorial Health System, in the release.
She added, "With a significant increase in patients, our health-care teams are working tirelessly to meet the growing demand. We encourage the community to seek the appropriate level of care to help us manage resources effectively and continue providing high-quality care for all."
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