The Chatham-Kent Health Alliance is gearing up to face a formidable "triple threat" season, combining the challenges of flu, COVID-19, and the usual surge in cold-related illnesses.
Hospital Vice President Caen Suni says recent provincial projections are suggesting an increase in the flu as well as a 50 per cent increase in the duration of the overall flu season.
"We're preparing our hospital operations for what we call the triple threat," said Suni. "That's RSV, COVID-19, and influenza that will impact our local system."
Although the projections are early ones, Suni said the hospital is working with its seasonal preparedness group led by internal leadership.
"We've hosted an internal emergency management table with a few mock scenarios to make sure we can maintain our capacity and respond in the event we see significant surges," said Suni.
A priority at this time for the hospital is ensuring surgical programs are maintained, while ensuring the flow of patients is manageable, and preparing staff to treat a possible influx of children.
"We are working as a team that includes local primary care, long-term care, as well as community agencies and EMS to better prepare for seasonal illness in that triple threat," said Suni.
Suni is encouraging members of the public to consider updating their vaccines.
"Its something our physicians and CK Public Health would recommended for COVID-19 as well as for the flu," said Suni. "Seeking those outs now is the time over the course of October before the season hits."
