Flu spike impacting emergency rooms in Colorado Springs hospital

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (KRDO) - We are officially in flu season, one of the worst we've seen in decades here in Colorado and across the nation, and one thing people can count on is longer wait times at the E.R.

"We adjust our staffing to try to accommodate the increased numbers. But typically what we do is run out of physical space before we run out of staff," says Dr. Stephen Neumann at Penrose Hospital.

The latest influenza numbers come from El Paso County Public Health data, which show a spike of 88 hospitalizations compared to only 36 the prior year. 

"We've definitely seen higher numbers of people in the emergency department," says Dr. Neumann.

Given the increase in patients, KRDO13 asked the doctor what people can do to mitigate the risks and perhaps skip the hospital visit.

"The flu is a virus. So, some people, most people will come in thinking that they need an antibiotic. But antibiotics, of course, are not effective against viruses. The flu is a virus. And so it just kind of has to run its course," says Dr. Neumann.

And just as with any year, people with chronic medical conditions can be at much greater risk of complications.

"Diabetes, kidney disease, and lung disease. If those people start feeling bad and get the flu, then it's a good idea for either us in the emergency room and urgent care or their primary care doctor to look at them," says Dr. Neumann.

A reminder from Doctors during this year's highly contagious flu season is to stay home if you are not feeling well, and of course, always wash your hands.

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