An unusually severe respiratory illness season in northeastern Ontario is putting immense pressure on hospitals, leading to the utilization of unconventional spaces for patient care. Health Sciences North (HSN), the regional healthcare center, is experiencing a 10 to 15 percent increase in patient volume compared to the previous year, a situation unprecedented according to HSN’s president and CEO, David McNeil.
The surge in patients is attributed to a combination of more severe flu cases, concurrent peaks in COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infections, overwhelming both the emergency department and inpatient admissions. In addition to treating critically ill patients from the wider region, multiple outbreaks have been reported in the community.
HSN disclosed that over 20 influenza, COVID-19, and respiratory outbreaks have been identified in various care facilities in Greater Sudbury since the beginning of 2026. The hospital currently faces two influenza outbreaks, one on the Respiratory Care Unit on 6 South and another on the Cardiology Unit on 8 North.
McNeil emphasized the escalating strain on HSN’s resources, with a notable increase in the number of patients awaiting inpatient beds in the emergency department. The hospital, accustomed to operating beyond capacity, is exploring alternative care locations within the facility to accommodate the rising patient influx.
Similarly, the Sault Area Hospital is grappling with the impact of a severe flu season, with occupancy levels at 119 percent as of January 6, 2026. Patients are being placed in recovery rooms due to the high demand for beds, potentially disrupting surgical schedules. Lynn Jobst, the hospital’s director of patient flow and utilization, highlighted the challenge of accommodating patients in non-traditional spaces, affecting the provision of essential services.
At the Temiskaming Hospital in New Liskeard, although the emergency department is not as congested as in larger centers, President and CEO Mike Baker noted that patients presenting with flu symptoms are notably more acutely ill. Admissions have risen, prompting efforts to isolate individuals with contagious viruses.
With hospitals across the region facing overcrowding issues, health officials are urging patience from individuals seeking emergency care and advising them to consider alternative healthcare options when appropriate.