Experts warn hospitals could soon struggle with an influx of patients as COVID cases rise

Families across Canada are gathering this weekend for one of the first big holidays since most pandemic restrictions lifted.

While experts say we now know how to better manage the virus, COVID-19 cases and the demand on hospitals are expected to rise as we head into the colder months.

“It could be Halloween, it could be Christmas, it could be Hanukkah, it could be Thanksgiving, the same rules apply,” says Infectious Diseases Physician Dr. Isaac Bogoch.

“We know exactly where the virus is transmitted and how it’s transmitted, we know how to protect ourselves. Really, the key things are if you’re sick, stay home, COVID or not. If you’re in indoor settings with other people you can lower that risk of transmission by opening up a window and improving the ventilation, by wearing a mask, and vaccines are extremely important as well.” 

In many provinces, rapid tests are still widely available, and experts say they are a useful tool when considering larger indoor gatherings.

Health officials say if you test positive on a rapid test, the virus is still likely transmissible.

This comes as experts across Canada say they are already seeing a rise in hospitalizations associated with COVID-19, but that is expected as we move indoors more during the colder months.  

“It’s going to continue unfortunately,” says Bogoch. “I think the key here is, to what extent? How many will there be? The other thing to think about too is capacity. Our healthcare system is having significant challenges.”

Hospitals say you can expect longer wait times due to increased demand, as well as a significant rise in respiratory infections and staff shortages.  

To help tackle recent pressures on health care, some children’s hospitals across Canada are adding specialized positions and looking at online tools for families.