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

Several long-term care homes in Sudbury are currently experiencing outbreaks of COVID-19 and influenza. According to Dr. Mustafa Hirji, Medical Officer of Health with Public Health Sudbury and Districts, approximately seven facilities are affected by respiratory viruses, with both flu and COVID-19 cases reported. Dr. Hirji noted that the number of cases is significantly higher than what is typically seen during the summer months, and he anticipates that the situation may worsen in the coming 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. Dr. Hirji indicated that the flu season has arrived earlier than usual this year, with the peak period expected around the holiday season, which coincides with increased gatherings that could facilitate the spread of the virus.

Despite the rise in cases, Dr. Hirji expressed a measured level of concern. He stated, “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. But I’m always concerned.”

Hospital Capacity Strained by Rising Cases

The situation in local hospitals is also pressing. At Health Sciences North, new admissions due to influenza are categorized as “very high,” according to the health unit’s respiratory illness surveillance dashboard. This surge has resulted in extended wait times for patients seeking care. Dr. Jeffrey Middaugh, an emergency physician and Medical Director of the Emergency Department at Health Sciences North, highlighted the ongoing capacity challenges faced by the hospital.

“We operate at overcapacity on a regular basis, which results in patients being boarded within the emergency department,” Dr. Middaugh explained. He noted that the emergency room is seeing upwards of 200 presentations daily, creating unique challenges for the medical staff.

Patients who should be receiving care in inpatient units are often required to remain in the emergency department for extended periods, sometimes up to 48 hours. Dr. Middaugh urged patience from visitors, acknowledging the frustration of long wait times while emphasizing the importance of kindness towards nursing and support staff.

“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.

Vaccination and Public Health Recommendations

In light of the rising respiratory illnesses, Dr. Hirji strongly recommends that individuals ensure they are up to date with their vaccinations and advises anyone feeling unwell to stay home. “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,” he stated.

As Sudbury navigates this challenging period, public health officials continue to monitor the situation closely, emphasizing the importance of community cooperation in mitigating the spread of respiratory viruses during the winter months.