Sudbury Reports Rise in COVID-19 and Flu Outbreaks in Care Homes

Sudbury is experiencing a notable increase in respiratory illness outbreaks, with several long-term care homes and retirement facilities reporting cases of both COVID-19 and influenza. According to Dr. Mustafa Hirji, the medical officer of health with Public Health Sudbury and Districts, approximately seven facilities are currently affected. “Some are influenza, some are COVID-19. That is definitely higher than we would see, for example, sometime during the summer,” he stated.

Outbreaks have been confirmed at multiple locations, including Extendicare Countryside, St. Joseph’s Continuing Care Centre-South Bay Road, Elizabeth Centre-Home Area, and Lasalle Residence. The type of respiratory illness at Manitoulin Centennial Manor – Lower Level remains unidentified. Dr. Hirji noted that flu season has arrived earlier than usual this year, with expectations that peak flu activity will coincide with the holiday season.

Rising Concerns Amidst Increased Hospital Admissions

“We are heading for probably the peak of our flu season to unfortunately be around the holiday time,” Dr. Hirji cautioned. This period is particularly concerning due to increased social gatherings, which heighten the risk of viral transmission. While he acknowledged that outbreaks are typical during this season, he expressed ongoing concern. “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 added. “But I’m always concerned.”

Current data from the health unit’s respiratory illness surveillance dashboard indicates that new influenza admissions at Health Sciences North are at a “very high” level. Dr. Jeffrey Middaugh, an emergency physician and medical director at the hospital, described the situation as challenging. “We are seeing the usual increased presentations for these illnesses,” he said, highlighting that the emergency room is frequently operating beyond its capacity.

Dr. Middaugh reported that the hospital often sees over 200 patients a day, leading to what he described as “boarding” within the emergency department. This occurs when patients who should be transferred to inpatient care remain in the emergency area for extended periods, sometimes between 36 to 48 hours.

Public Health Recommendations and Community Support

As wait times at hospitals increase, Dr. Middaugh urged visitors to maintain kindness towards hospital 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. He emphasized that courteous behavior helps foster the crucial relationships needed for effective patient care.

Dr. Hirji strongly advocates for vaccination as a key preventive measure. “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 remarked. He also reiterated the importance of staying home when feeling unwell to help mitigate the spread of illness.

As Sudbury navigates these outbreaks, the health community encourages vigilance and adherence to public health guidelines to protect the most vulnerable populations.