Sudbury Faces COVID-19 and Flu Outbreaks in Long-Term Care Homes

Sudbury’s health unit has reported multiple outbreaks of both COVID-19 and influenza at long-term care homes throughout the city. According to Dr. Mustafa Hirji, medical officer of health with Public Health Sudbury and Districts, approximately seven facilities are currently experiencing respiratory virus cases. “Some are influenza, some are COVID-19,” he noted. “That is definitely higher than we would see, for example, sometime during the summer. And unfortunately, we probably will see that ramped up over the next few weeks.”

Outbreaks have been confirmed at several locations, including Extendicare Countryside, St. Joseph’s Continuing Care Centre-South Bay Road, Elizabeth Centre-Home Area, and Lasalle Residence. At Manitoulin Centennial Manor, the specific type of respiratory illness remains unidentified.

Flu Season Arrives Earlier Than Usual

Dr. Hirji indicated that this year’s flu season has commenced earlier than typical. “We are heading for probably the peak of our flu season to unfortunately be around the holiday time,” he commented. This period often involves increased gatherings, raising concerns about the spread of the virus.

While seasonal outbreaks are expected, Dr. Hirji expressed cautious optimism. “I’m not at the level of concern where I think it is worse than we would see during the peak of another flu season, so I’m not particularly concerned about it this year more than other years,” he stated. “But I’m always concerned.”

Hospital Capacity Strained by Rising Admissions

The situation is further complicated by increased hospital admissions. At Health Sciences North, new influenza admissions have been categorized as “very high,” according to the health unit’s respiratory illness surveillance dashboard. This surge is contributing to extended wait times in the emergency department.

Dr. Jeffrey Middaugh, emergency physician and medical director at Health Sciences North, explained that hospitals across the province are facing similar challenges. “We operate at overcapacity on a regular basis, which results in patients being boarded within the emergency department,” he remarked. This means that some patients awaiting admission may spend up to 48 hours in the emergency area before receiving appropriate care.

Dr. Middaugh urged visitors to remain patient and kind during this period of heightened demand. “We are fully aware that you are waiting a long time to see a physician, and we are doing our best to follow as many people as we possibly can through our emergency department,” he said. He emphasized that kindness towards the nursing and support staff is vital for maintaining a positive environment.

Dr. Hirji further advised the public to ensure they are up to date with their vaccinations and recommended that those who are feeling unwell should stay home. He highlighted the importance of vaccines, stating, “(Vaccines) are free. They make a difference. You know, they’re not 100 percent unfortunately, but they really do make a difference in preventing severe illness and preventing us from passing these infections on to others who might be more vulnerable than us.”

As Sudbury navigates these outbreaks, the community’s response and adherence to health guidelines will be crucial in mitigating the impact of both COVID-19 and influenza during this challenging season.