Alberta Hospitals Overwhelmed by Flu Surge

Alberta's hospitals are currently struggling with a significant surge in influenza cases, which have more than doubled since late November. This dramatic increase has led to a critical shortage of beds, with infectious diseases specialists describing their hospitals as "high-intensity environments." To manage the influx, medical outpatient areas are being repurposed for inpatients, and emergency departments are filled with admitted patients unable to be moved to wards due to a lack of available beds. Doctors emphasize the stress on staff and the challenging conditions for patient evaluation.

The Alberta government has acknowledged the immense pressure on emergency departments, stating they are working to address capacity concerns. Minister of Hospital and Surgical Health Services, Matt Jones, confirmed that surgeries are not being cancelled and emergency rooms remain operational. The province is actively opening surge beds, maximizing available space, expanding virtual care, and safely discharging patients. They are also prepared to open additional surge capacity if demand continues to rise, with a long-term plan to increase acute care capacity in major cities.

Health officials anticipate that influenza hospitalizations could peak around December 28, with RSV potentially peaking in early January, suggesting the peak of the pressure might be experienced in early to mid-January. The government urges citizens to get vaccinated and stay home when sick. While current measures are in place, concerns remain about a potential "double wave" of influenza and RSV stressing facilities further. Alternative options like Health Link at 811 are encouraged for non-emergency cases.