Stay healthy (and out of emergency) for the holiday season: CHEO tips to kids and families

Ottawa, ON., Monday December 4, 2023 – With the viral season in full swing, CHEO is seeing increased volumes with more than 200 children and youth coming through the Emergency department daily. The season is expected to peak in the next few weeks and the risk of transmission of COVID-19, influenza and RSV in the community is high. While wait times may be longer than usual, scheduled surgeries or appointments continue to take place normally at this time.

“A few months ago, the Government of Ontario announced a significant investment in pediatric healthcare across the province – including more beds, clinics, surgeries and diagnostic procedures,” said Alex Munter, CHEO President and CEO. “We are still in the process of hiring more staff but, already, we are much better equipped to manage this viral season than we were in 2022.”

We also know what works to help keep kids out of hospital.

“With the holiday season upon us, everyone must remain vigilant and use all strategies that work to prevent further infections,” said Dr. Nisha Thampi, CHEO’s Chief of Infection Prevention and Control. “We want everyone to have a good and healthy holiday season.”

Reducing the risk of transmission

With increased gatherings in the coming weeks, everyone should consider the following precautions to prevent infections:

Staying home when sick

Wearing a mask indoors

Washing your hands regularly

Coughing into elbows

Getting vaccinated for all eligible vaccines, including COVID-19 and influenza.

Where to seek care

If your child is unwell, here are ways to seek care:

Kids Come First Clinics are available throughout the city and can offer vaccine appointments here;
Visit your family physician or primary care provider;
If it’s an emergency, do not hesitate and come to CHEO emergency department;
If you are not sure, CHEO emergency physicians have prepared an Expert Video Series about what considerations to make before a trip to Emergency as well as a fact sheet

Media contact

media@cheo.on.ca

About CHEO

Based in Canada’s capital, CHEO is a globally renowned health institution with a mission to provide exceptional care and support to children, youth and their families. Opening our doors in 1974, we offer a full range of specialized pediatric care and services to children from eastern and northern Ontario, western Quebec and Nunavut. Our site is home to a hospital, a children’s treatment centre, a school, a research institute, and is affiliated with the University of Ottawa as an academic health science centre. Named Canada’s best health-care employer by Forbes in 2024 and 2025, we are home to more than 6,500 staff, clinicians, scientists and researchers, as well as volunteers – all of whom work together to help children and youth achieve their best lives.