Overflowing Pediatric Emergency Rooms Prompt Urgent Call for Parental Cooperation

Emergency pediatric departments are experiencing significant overcrowding as many children are arriving with typical flu symptoms. The peak of the flu season is expected during the holiday season, prompting urgent calls for parental cooperation.

Current Situation in Pediatric Emergency Rooms

Dr. Antonio D’Angelo, the medical chief of the CHU Sainte-Justine emergency department, noted a surge in patient numbers starting December 8. The facility is currently operating above usual capacity, seeing over 300 patients daily.

Statistics and Insights

At the Montreal Children’s Hospital during the second week of December, more than 40% of emergency visits were for minor health issues, leading to occupancy rates of 130% for stretchers. Similar trends are noted at CHU Sainte-Justine, highlighting the urgent need for parents to understand when to seek emergency care.

• Surge in pediatric emergency visits started on December 8.
• More than 300 patients are being seen daily at CHU Sainte-Justine.
• 40% of emergency visits at the Montreal Children’s Hospital were for minor issues in early December.
• Stretcher occupancy rates reached 130% during this period.

Parental Guidance and Recommendations

Doctors recommend that parents only bring children to emergency rooms for severe symptoms. This includes:

• Difficulty breathing
• Vomiting or diarrhea with signs of dehydration
• Severe injuries (e.g., head trauma, fractures, burns)
• Possible poisoning
• Fever in infants under three months

Dr. Jesse Papenburg, a pediatric infectious disease specialist, emphasizes that a fever in infants within their first few months warrants an immediate consultation. While many parents worry about fever, Dr. D’Angelo reassures that it is a natural defense mechanism and often not dangerous on its own.

Flu Season Predictions and Vaccination Importance

This year’s flu season is anticipated to peak at the end of December, a shift from last year’s peak in late February. Last week, over 3,500 influenza cases were reported in Quebec health public laboratories. Additionally, tragic reports emerged from Eastern Ontario, where three children aged 5 to 9 died due to flu-related complications.

Dr. Papenburg advises that it is not too late to receive the flu vaccine before the holidays. He highlights the importance of vaccination, especially for vulnerable populations and those with chronic conditions, noting that it takes 10 to 14 days to build a complete immune response.

Staying Safe During the Holiday Season

Parents are urged to exercise good judgment if symptoms arise and to keep children home if they are unwell. Regular hand washing and wearing masks in public can help reduce the risk of contagion.

These preventive measures are critical as emergency departments gear up for an expected influx of patients during the holidays. Cooperation from parents can help ensure that resources are available for those most in need.