Montreal’s emergency rooms are overwhelmed, showing a worrying trend compared to the rest of Quebec
They noted a rise in flu cases, which isn’t helping the situation. Robin Marie Coleman from Santé Québec mentioned that while occupancy rates across the province have been stable, Montreal’s numbers are climbing.
In fact, the occupancy rate jumped from 135% last year to 142% this year. Meanwhile, places like Quebec City are doing better, with lower occupancy rates.
Véronique Wilson, another official at Santé Québec, pointed out that ER visits have increased by over 600 daily compared to last year. Most of that surge is happening in Montreal, with a notable nine percent rise.
She explained that many patients coming to the ER are older and sicker, which adds to the strain. Plus, specialized hospitals in Montreal often treat patients from outside the city, with over 30% of visitors coming from off the island.
Dr. Luc Boileau, Quebec’s public health director, also mentioned that flu cases are on the rise and are expected to peak in early February. He stressed the importance of getting vaccinated, especially for older folks who are at higher risk.
While RSV cases are also increasing, COVID-19 numbers have been dropping lately. Boileau feels optimistic, saying things are looking better than in previous years.
