Delaware Healthcare Association offers guidance on respiratory illness

The Delaware Healthcare Association recently issued a statement on behalf of its hospital members urging precautions to prevent respiratory illness and reminding patients where to seek care.

Hospitals expect to see a surge in respiratory illness during the winter season and are ready to care for Delawareans in need.

Anyone who is not feeling well should first reach out to their primary care provider or visit an urgent care facility to assess their condition. If it is an emergency, go to the nearest emergency department or dial 9-1-1. Knowing where to go for care and ensuring that the hospital emergency department is only used for emergencies will help each person get the right care at the right time and can help everyone avoid long wait times.

“Meeting the needs of all patients is the No. 1 priority of our hospitals. To prevent the spread of illness, we cannot stress enough the importance of getting vaccinated against flu, COVID-19, and if applicable, RSV. We also recommend preventative measures like frequent hand-washing, maintaining social distance, wearing a face mask that covers both your nose and mouth, and staying home when sick,” said Megan McNamara Williams, DNP, FNP-C, FAANP, DHA vice president of clinical affairs and operations.

As of Jan. 17, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has classified overall respiratory illness activity in Delaware as high, emergency department visits for flu as high and increasing, and respiratory syncytial virus as high with no change. Go to cdc.gov/respiratory-viruses/data/index.html for updates.