Important message from WA Dept. of Health on Flu Epidemic

The influenza season is in full swing in Washington! Currently, it appears we are near the peak of a moderately severe season.

Several hospitals, particularly those located in the I-5 corridor, are reporting limited to no bed availability along with the need to board patients in emergency departments and other locations. Several emergency departments are also experiencing large volumes of patients and long wait times.

We are encouraging all healthcare providers to assist with relieving pressure on our hospitals and emergency departments. We recommend you:

• Make all available efforts to manage low acuity patients in outpatient settings, including when providing telephone triage messages to patients.
• Expand office hours, staffing and outpatient clinic capacity to accommodate an increase in patients where possible.
• Use prompt antiviral treatment for any patient with confirmed or suspected flu who is severely ill or at risk of severe illness to minimize complications and need for hospitalization.
• Ensure all healthcare workers in your clinic are vaccinated against influenza.

Key messages for healthcare providers regarding vaccination, testing and treatment for influenza are available here.

The Department of Health monitoring flu activity throughout the season. The weekly DOH Influenza Update is available here.

Thank you for all you do to care for the residents of our state.