Hospitals across Niagara continue to experience significant pressure as a difficult respiratory illness season drives higher demand for care and longer wait times in Emergency Departments.
While influenza activity is beginning to ease, the impact on hospitals lingers — particularly because patients admitted with respiratory illness often require longer stays and more complex care.
“At its peak just before the holidays, we had 85 patients admitted to hospital with influenza, COVID-19 and RSV,” said Dr. Karim Ali, Medical Director, Infection Prevention and Control, at Niagara Health. “That number has since come down to 47 admitted patients, which is encouraging. But the impacts of influenza don’t resolve overnight, especially for older adults. Recovery takes time, and that affects hospital capacity.”
Patients admitted with influenza and other respiratory illnesses often experience weakness, deconditioning and complications that prolong their hospital stay. As a result, beds remain occupied even as new admissions continue.
In recent weeks, inpatient bed occupancy across Niagara Health has reached as high as 116 per cent. At the same time, 71 patients were designated as Alternate Level of Care — meaning they were medically ready to leave hospital but waiting for community supports — and 94 patients were waiting in Emergency Departments for an inpatient bed. When hospitals are operating beyond capacity, admitted patients remain in the ED longer, which slows patient flow and contributes to longer wait times for everyone.
“When inpatient beds are full, patients who need admission end up waiting in the Emergency Department for a bed to open upstairs,” said Dr. Rafi Setrak, Chief of Emergency Medicine at Niagara Health. “That bottleneck has a ripple effect throughout the entire department.”
Emergency Departments prioritize patients based on medical urgency, not arrival time. Patients with life-threatening or time-sensitive conditions — such as chest pain, difficulty breathing, stroke symptoms, or serious injuries — are always seen first.
“It’s important for people to understand that if they are experiencing an emergency, they should come to the ED or call 9-1-1 without hesitation,” said Dr. Setrak. “Emergency care is what these departments are built for, and that message never changes.”
At the same time, physicians stress that not every illness requires emergency care. Many non-urgent concerns — including sore throats, mild fevers, lingering coughs, minor injuries, or medication questions — can often be managed more quickly and appropriately through other healthcare options.
Choosing the right place for care helps patients and helps the system. Family doctors, walk-in clinics, nurse practitioner clinics, pharmacists, virtual urgent care and urgent care centres all play an important role in keeping emergency departments available for the sickest patients.
For those who do need to visit the Emergency Department, patients are encouraged to come prepared, especially during busy winter months.
“Bring a list of your medications, something to pass the time, and a phone charger,” said Dr. Setrak. “If you’re coming with children, a favourite toy can make a long wait more manageable.”
Niagara Health continues to work on improving patient flow, supporting safe discharges, and strengthening partnerships with community healthcare providers. However, physicians say addressing winter pressures requires understanding and cooperation across the entire healthcare system.
“Our staff are part of this community too,” said Dr. Setrak. “They’re caring for patients while dealing with the same illnesses at home. A little patience and kindness goes a long way during periods of peak demand.”
Doctors emphasize that emergency care remains available around the clock.
“If you’re seriously ill or injured, we are here for you,” said Dr. Setrak. “That is our responsibility, and it’s a promise we take very seriously.”
Know your healthcare options
Health811
Call 811 to speak with a registered nurse for free, confidential advice on where to seek care.
Primary care providers
Family doctors, walk-in clinics, and nurse practitioner clinics for common illnesses, prescriptions, and chronic conditions.
Pharmacies
Ontario pharmacists can prescribe for a range of minor ailments, including UTIs and some cold-related conditions.
Virtual Urgent Care
Same-day care from home for non-emergency concerns. Visit UrgentCareOntario.ca.
Urgent Care Centres
For sprains, minor cuts, mild asthma, fevers, and illnesses that can’t wait for an appointment. Open 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily in Port Colborne and Fort Erie. Make sure to check the Niagara Health website before visiting as hours are subject to change.
Emergency Departments
For chest pain, trouble breathing, stroke symptoms, severe injuries, loss of consciousness, serious mental health crises, and other life-threatening emergencies. Call 9-1-1 or go to the nearest ED.
Protecting yourself from respiratory illnesses
Small everyday actions can also help reduce the spread of illness and keep more people well through the winter season, including:- Stay up to date on your vaccinations
- Washing your hands often
- Coughing or sneezing into your elbow or a tissue
- Keeping indoor spaces well ventilated
- Consider wearing a mask, especially in crowded or enclosed spaces. Wearing a mask in public places while sick is also recommended.
- If you are unwell, keeping distance and waiting until you feel better before gathering with others.
- Monitoring symptoms and seeking medical attention if needed.
