DELMARVA-Â With staffing shortages and more sick patients, hospitals are strained with the volume becoming more overwhelming.
Delaware Division of Public Health Director Dr. Karyl Rattay says the two southernmost counties are being challenged most.
"We’re especially struggling in the southern part of the state," Dr. Rattay said. "It’s not all COVID but we have high numbers of COVID cases in Sussex and Kent County right now."
TidalHealth is encouraging people to see their primary doctors or urgent cares if they are experiencing symptoms like fever, muscle aches, or loss of appetite without chest pain or shortness of breath. Chief Quality Officer Dr. Chris Snyder says tests that are not COVID-related can also be done elsewhere.
"The important thing is we’re here if you need us," Dr. Snyder said. "But you know again try to limit your activity and try to call your healthcare provider or somebody in healthcare who understands what we do. At least to talk to them about your problems or get advice on what avenue to get the best care."
Aspira Health has also been overwhelmed with the amount of patients that have been walking through its doors lately. Dr. Lindsay Albanese says that with the flu season around the corner, the symptoms of the flu can be similar to those of COVID-19 and anyone can get tested by appointment if they are showing any of those signs.
"I’m always recommending to my patients that even if you have minor symptoms whether that be cough, a fever, body aches, shortness or breath, runny nose, sore throat those symptoms are overlapping with flu," Dr. Albanese said. "So it’s always better to get tested for flu as well as COVID."
Dr. Rattay fears that there could be a rebound of influenza cases after there were close to none last year. She says mask wearing may have helped make that happen and people should continue to wear masks this flu season.
A sick season ahead with COVID and flu presenting similar dangers to people’s health.
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