Higher volumes for health care services are anticipated every year during cold and flu season, and 2022 is no different.

This year, SSM Health Monroe Hospital and SSM Health Monroe Clinic Medical Group are seeing some of those increases earlier than anticipated as local cases of the flu and RSV are already coming in. In a recent 7-day period, SSM Health tested 140 patients in Monroe, 27 of which were positive for flu.

“We are seeing more patients in our emergency department and urgent care locations, as well as much sicker patients,” shared Dr. Darren Pipp, Chief Medical Officer at SSM Health Monroe Hospital and SSM Health Monroe Clinic Medical Group. “Because we need to treat the most serious cases right away, that can sometimes lead to longer wait times for other patients.”

When seeking care for cold symptoms, appointments with patients’ primary care providers are encouraged before presenting at an urgent care location. If patients are experiencing serious symptoms such as trouble breathing or are at a higher risk for serious complications, please seek emergency care. For mild cases that can be managed at home, virtual care options including video visits and e-visits are available.

“Similar to everyone, healthcare providers and staff are not exempt from sickness and often must adjust hours and services. We appreciate everyone’s patience when those situations arise,” noted Dr. Pipp.

SSM Health highly recommends anyone over the age of 6 months to receive the annual flu shot and for those who are eligible to receive the COVID-19 booster series.

Other ways to reduce the spread of illness include keeping up with good hand washing, covering coughs and sneezes and masking up when in spaces indoors with non-household residents if ill.