Montreal’s two pediatric hospitals are struggling with severe overcrowding as a surge in flu cases pushes emergency rooms beyond capacity. Doctors say many of the visits involve mild illnesses that do not require emergency care.
At the Montreal Children’s Hospital, the emergency department has seen a sharp rise in patient numbers. Waiting rooms have been packed, with lines extending toward the entrance as staff work to manage the influx.
Dr. Harley Eisman, the hospital’s pediatric emergency medical director, said the ER is built to handle about 200 patients a day. Over the weekend, registrations exceeded 300.
Many parents come in because of concerns about fever, Eisman said. He noted that fever is a natural response to infection and that most cases are viral, often linked to influenza. While staff are fully prepared to treat seriously ill children, he said a large share of visits could have been avoided. From Dec. 8 to 14, more than 40 per cent of patients presented with minor conditions that could have been treated at home.
A similar situation is unfolding at CHU Sainte-Justine. Dr. Antonio D’Angelo, the emergency room director, said flu-related visits are placing heavy pressure on staff.
He explained that nurses are spending much of their time triaging patients rather than caring for the sickest children. This, he said, strains limited resources and slows care for those who need it most.
Both physicians said they understand parental anxiety when a child has a fever. However, after waiting up to 12 hours, most flu patients are advised to manage symptoms at home, as hospitals can offer little beyond supportive treatment.
Doctors recommend seeking emergency care if an infant under three months has a fever, if a child shows signs of dehydration, has difficulty breathing, or is hard to wake or not responding normally. For typical flu symptoms, they advise staying home, calling Quebec’s 811 health line, or visiting a local clinic.
Physicians also noted that emergency rooms filled with contagious patients may pose additional risks. Some relief is expected as schools and daycares close for the holiday break, which could slow the spread of illness.
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