Flu Season Hits Hard: Hospitals Step Up Measures

Starting Now:

• Anyone showing flu-like symptoms must wear a mask in healthcare facilities
• Applies to emergency rooms, doctor's offices, and urgent care clinics

The Numbers Don't Lie

• Virginia's eastern region:
• Flu-related ER visits: nearly 8% of all visits last week

• Slight drop from previous week's peak

• Nationwide:
• Flu cases jumped by nearly a third in one week

Hospitals Under Pressure

• Sentara Leigh Hospital:
• 25% increase in daily ER visits
• Whole hospital system:
• Almost 20% increase

Result:

• Longer wait times
• Delayed admissions

Not Just the Flu

• COVID-19 and RSV also making the rounds
• But flu is the main culprit

Hospitals' Urgent Advice

• Get vaccinated
• Wash your hands
• Stay home if you're sick
• Cover your coughs and sneezes
• If you're not feeling well:
• See your regular doctor
• Go to an urgent care clinic
• Avoid the emergency room

Visitors: Be Careful

• If you're feeling sick:
• Postpone visits to friends or family in the hospital
• Helps keep everyone safe