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Winter viruses: consultations explode in pediatric emergencies in Lyon

Consultations in the emergency department of the Woman-Mother-Child hospital have exploded over the last 15 days. Viral epidemics are early and children are less protected due to successive confinements.

According to the Hospices Civils de Lyon (HCL), the number of pediatric emergency consultations at the Woman-Mother-Child Hospital (HFME) has increased by 56% compared to the same period of 2019.

Two reasons for this: the appearance very early in the season of viral epidemics, such as bronchiolitis and children less armed with immune defenses, following successive confinements. Doctors speak of an “immune debt”. Clearly, lYoung children are less protected by their immune system and get sicker.

Currently, 1/3 of intensive care beds and continuing care of the HFME are occupied by children with bronchiolitis.

Risk of saturation

Faced with the scale and precocity of the phenomenon, the HCL fear “lsaturation of emergency and resuscitation services, but also of all pediatric services “.

Each year 4000 cases of bronchiolitis are treated in the emergency department of the HFME.

In this context, Lyon pediatricians are calling on parents to adopt the right actions.

Respect barrier gestures : wearing a mask in the event of infection, hand washing, distancing, avoiding going out into enclosed places that accommodate a large number of people (shopping centers, public transport, etc.).

Respect the treatment path most relevant for optimal care:

> As a first resort, consult your pediatrician, your attending physician or in medical centers on call.

> Coming to the emergency room should be reserved for situations for which immediate medical and / or surgical management is required.

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