Ottawa Battles Rising Respiratory Illnesses Amid Holiday Season
As the festive air fills Ottawa, a chilling undercurrent of respiratory illnesses has started to emerge. The city’s hospitals are witnessing a surge in emergency visits due to respiratory issues. Out of every six patients rushing to The Ottawa Hospital’s emergency, one is grappling with a respiratory illness. A recent report from Ottawa Public Health has served a sobering reminder of the ongoing threats, revealing ten COVID-19 related fatalities within the past week.
The Silent Siege of COVID-19
The city is currently home to 164 hospitalised COVID-19 patients, with one battling for life in intensive care. Two others, although in ICU for different reasons, are also infected with the virus. Since the pandemic’s onset, Ottawa has recorded nearly 100,000 cases and 1,185 deaths. The threat, however, is far from over. Ottawa’s wastewater data, showing higher levels of the virus compared to last year, paints a grim picture. The JN.1 Omicron subvariant is spreading rapidly in Ontario, indicating a potential international threat.
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Insufficient Vaccination: A Crisis in Making
Despite the availability of an updated COVID-19 vaccine, the uptake has been slow, particularly among the vulnerable elderly population. This insufficient vaccination is contributing to the rise in hospitalisations. Simultaneously, Ottawa is reeling under a wave of influenza, with high death numbers recorded. The local health authorities have issued a warning, urging eligible residents to get the latest COVID-19 booster and annual flu vaccines. The high-risk groups include individuals over 60, pregnant women, those with chronic diseases, or compromised immune systems, and children under 5.
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The Way Forward: Proactive Measures against Respiratory Illnesses
In anticipation of the increased respiratory illnesses this winter, including COVID-19, flu, and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), Ottawa Public Health is encouraging proactive measures. These include staying informed about vaccines, staying home when feeling sick, avoiding hospital visits if symptomatic, frequent handwashing, disinfecting surfaces, and wearing masks. The efforts are specifically targeted to protect oneself and safeguard high-risk individuals. Hospitals have also started preparing surge plans to accommodate the increasing number of patients.
Ottawa Battles Rising Respiratory Illnesses Amid Holiday Season - BNN Breaking
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