Situation in Quebec ERs still ‘very critical,’ winter virus peak reached

Santé Québec says the situation in the province’s emergency rooms is still “very critical,” but we’ve hit the winter peak when it comes to the circulation of viruses.

Again, this week — stretcher occupancy rates in Montreal and the 450 regions remain high.

Hospitals in the city average 148 per cent overcapacity, but some like the Royal Victoria are reaching 224 per cent.

LaSalle is at 220 per cent and the Lakeshore General Hospital at 210 per cent overcapacity.

For the first time in the past few weeks, the number of daily visits to the province’s ERs is stable. However, there’s still a significant increase in the number of emergency room visits for flu-like symptoms.

The Montreal-area is seeing this more than the rest of the province, with a six per cent increase in daily ER visits over the past week, compared to the same time last year.

Health authorities expect to see another increase in ER visits after March break – when people return from travelling and from injuries sustained during outdoor activities.

Santé Québec is reminding everyone that there are alternatives to the emergency room, such as Info-Santé 811 services, which is free, confidential, and available seven days a week, 24 hours a day. Additionally, you can speak to your pharmacist, see your family doctor, or a CLSC.

However, if your case is urgent, don’t hesitate to head to the ER.