Call Your Doctor First: Flu Patients Advised to Avoid Hospitals
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Loading... - Adio Tarek
- 08 Jan 2025
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This year's flu epidemic in Belgium has started slightly earlier than usual, prompting health officials to recommend that patients consult their general practitioners (GPs) before heading to hospitals. This guidance aims to alleviate pressure on healthcare services, as emergency rooms are already experiencing long waiting times.
The flu season began in December, with a noticeable increase in weekly GP consultations for respiratory infections and confirmed laboratory tests for influenza. Hospitals in the Belgian capital are busier than normal, particularly in emergency departments, according to a spokesperson for the Ministry of Health.
Nathalie Schaar, a representative from CHU Saint-Pierre hospital, noted that emergency rooms are filling up not only with severe cases but also with patients exhibiting milder flu symptoms. This influx has led to significant waiting times, with reports indicating that patients at a public hospital in Liège are facing waits of up to six hours. This situation is exacerbated by many individuals opting to go directly to hospitals instead of first consulting a GP.
Frederic Pellissier, spokesperson for Vivalis, which focuses on health and social issues in Brussels, explained that many people lack a regular or official general doctor, leading them to prefer emergency rooms for even minor ailments. He added that the abundance of hospitals in Brussels makes it easier for individuals to seek immediate care rather than calling a doctor.
Both Pellissier and Schaar strongly advise patients to contact their family doctor first if they are concerned about flu symptoms. GPs can assess the situation and determine whether a hospital visit is necessary. For after-hours concerns, information about available GPs in Brussels can be found online.
For those experiencing flu symptoms, rest and appropriate medication are recommended. Patients are also advised to avoid contact with individuals in at-risk groups to prevent further spread of the virus.
Since October, Belgium has been running a vaccination campaign against seasonal flu, with approximately 2.7 million flu vaccines available for this season. Schaar emphasized the importance of vaccination, particularly for vulnerable populations, including the elderly and those with pre-existing health conditions. "The epidemic has just begun, and it is still worth getting vaccinated," she stated.
As the flu season progresses, following these guidelines can help manage the strain on healthcare services while ensuring that patients receive the appropriate care they need.
