Michael Cohen presenting to Smiths Falls council in 2023.
Emergency rooms at the Perth and Smiths Falls District Hospital are busier than usual as flu season peaks over the holidays, leading to longer waits for some patients.
Hospital President and CEO Michael Cohen said emergency volumes are about 25 per cent higher than average, something patients may be noticing.
“People in the community would feel that the waits are a little bit longer,” Cohen said. “If it’s really bad, you’re probably looking more like four or five hours” (0:23–0:40).
He said influenza activity has arrived later than usual but is now peaking.
Cohen said flu shots are free at pharmacies and urged residents to take care during the holiday season.
Cohen said many people are unsure when an ER visit is needed, noting that some concerns can be handled by a family doctor or clinic if it is safe to wait. But if in doubt, they should head to the hospital right away.
