Norfolk General Hospital (NGH) is dealing with a surge in flu, RSV, and COVID-19 cases, pushing its capacity to over 100% in recent weeks. High patient volumes, combined with staff illnesses, are straining the hospital, though NGH remains committed to safe, high-quality care.
To keep emergency services available for those in critical need, NGH encourages residents to consider other healthcare options for non-urgent issues. Alternatives include visiting a pharmacist, consulting a family doctor, or calling Health Connect Ontario at 811 for 24/7 health advice. Walk-in and virtual urgent care clinics are also available locally.
“Respiratory illnesses are rising, and emergency departments are under pressure,” said Dr. Christine Tran, NGH’s Emergency Chief.
Residents can help reduce the spread by staying home when sick, wearing masks, washing hands often, and staying up to date with flu, RSV, and COVID-19 vaccines. Vaccinations remain a key defense against severe illness.
Written by Jeremy Hall