Breaking health crisis affects thousands of Ottawa families as flu season peaks early
If you’re an Ottawa parent, you need to read this right now. CHEO (Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario) has just issued an urgent warning about a dramatic spike in pediatric flu cases that’s overwhelming the emergency department—and we’re not even at peak flu season yet.
The Numbers Are Staggering
CHEO revealed on December 3rd that eight times more children tested positive for influenza in November 2025 compared to the same month last year. Even more concerning: hospitalizations have doubled during the same period.
Here’s what makes this especially worrying: according to both CHEO and Ottawa Public Health, peak flu season isn’t expected until late December. That means the worst could still be ahead of us.
Why This Is Happening
The hospital has identified a critical pattern among sick children arriving at the Emergency Department: most have not received their annual flu vaccine. This gap in immunization coverage is contributing significantly to the surge in severe cases requiring hospitalization.
Dr. Angela Crawley, a senior scientist at the Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, warns that flu symptoms in children can manifest as dangerous complications including high fever and breathing difficulties—conditions that require immediate medical attention.
What Ottawa Parents Need to Know Right Now
Recognizing Flu Symptoms in Children
Flu symptoms in kids typically appear suddenly and include:
- High fever (often 100°F/37.8°C or higher)
- Severe body aches and fatigue (more intense than a typical cold)
- Dry cough that develops early
- Headache and chills
- Sore throat
- In some children: nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
Key difference from a cold: Flu symptoms hit hard and fast. If your child seemed fine at breakfast and is miserable by lunch, it’s likely the flu.
When to Call Your Doctor (Non-Emergency)
Contact your pediatrician if your child:
- Has a fever lasting more than 3-5 days
- Shows signs of dehydration (urinating less than every 8 hours, dry mouth)
- Isn’t drinking adequate fluids
- Has symptoms that aren’t improving after a week
- Develops ear pain or sinus pressure (potential complications)
Emergency Warning Signs—Go to CHEO Immediately If:
🚨 Call 911 or go to the ER if your child shows:
- Difficulty breathing or rapid, labored breathing
- Chest retractions (ribs pulling in with each breath)
- Bluish lips, face, or skin (indicates low oxygen)
- Severe dehydration (no urination for 8+ hours, sunken eyes)
- High fever above 104°F that won’t come down
- Extreme lethargy or unresponsiveness
- Seizures
- Fever in infants under 3 months old (any fever over 100.4°F)
Treatment Options: What Actually Works
At-Home Care for Mild Cases
Most children can recover at home with proper care:
- Fever management: Acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) in age-appropriate doses. Never give aspirin to children—it’s linked to Reye syndrome
- Hydration: Push fluids constantly—water, electrolyte drinks, frozen fruit pops, broth
- Rest: Keep kids home from school for at least 24 hours after fever breaks (without medication)
- Humidity: Use a cool-mist humidifier to ease breathing
- Saline drops: For stuffy noses in younger children
Prescription Antiviral Medications
Your doctor may prescribe antiviral medications like Tamiflu (oseltamivir) which can:
- Reduce symptom severity
- Shorten illness duration by 1-2 days
- Prevent serious complications
- Lower hospitalization risk
Critical timing: These medications work best when started within 48 hours of symptom onset, though they can still help if started later, especially for high-risk children.
Who Needs Antivirals Most?
Children at higher risk for complications include:
- Kids under 2 years old
- Children with asthma or other chronic lung conditions
- Those with heart disease, diabetes, or weakened immune systems
- Children with neurological conditions
Where to Get the Flu Vaccine in Ottawa (It’s Free!)
The single most important action you can take right now is getting your family vaccinated. The flu vaccine is available at no charge to everyone six months and older in Ontario.
Ottawa Vaccination Options:
1. Pharmacies (Ages 2+)
- Primary access point for most families
- Many offer walk-in services
- Check pharmacy websites for availability
2. Family Doctors and Nurse Practitioners
- Schedule through your primary care provider
- Often can vaccinate during regular appointments
3. Ottawa Public Health Clinics
- By appointment for high-risk populations
- Available for:
- Children under 5 and their household members
- Newcomers without OHIP
- Those facing barriers to access
- Drop-in options available at Neighbourhood Health and Wellness Hubs (capacity-dependent)
For families outside Ottawa: Contact your local public health unit for vaccination locations.
Protecting Your Family: Prevention Strategies
Beyond vaccination, implement these proven strategies:
- Hand hygiene: Wash hands frequently with soap and water for 20+ seconds
- Teach proper cough/sneeze etiquette: Use elbow, not hands
- Disinfect high-touch surfaces: Door handles, light switches, toys, tablets
- Keep sick kids home: Don’t send to school or daycare until fever-free for 24 hours (without medication)
- Avoid smoke exposure: Smoke weakens respiratory defenses
What to Expect at CHEO’s Emergency Department
CHEO is currently experiencing long wait times due to the surge in respiratory illnesses. Before heading to the ER:
- Call your pediatrician first for moderate symptoms—they can provide guidance and potentially see your child in-office
- Avoid bringing siblings or extra family members to the ER to reduce their exposure risk
- Call ahead if possible to alert staff you’re coming
- Bring a list of your child’s symptoms including when they started and any medications given
The Bottom Line for Ottawa Parents
This flu season is hitting hard and hitting early. With peak season still ahead, the time to act is now:
✅ Get your kids vaccinated immediately if you haven’t already ✅ Know the emergency warning signs and don’t hesitate to seek care ✅ Keep sick kids home to protect others ✅ Have a plan for childcare backup and know where to access care
Remember: most children recover fully from the flu within a week, but early recognition of serious symptoms can prevent complications. Trust your parental instincts—if something feels wrong, get medical advice.
Quick Reference Card: When to Seek Care
🏠 Treat at Home:
- Mild fever responding to medication
- Normal breathing
- Drinking fluids adequately
- Alert and responsive
📞 Call Pediatrician:
- Fever lasting 3-5+ days
- Poor fluid intake
- Worsening symptoms after a week
- Ear pain or sinus pressure
🚨 Emergency Room NOW:
- Difficulty breathing
- Bluish skin or lips
- Severe dehydration
- Extreme lethargy
- Fever above 104°F
- Any fever in infant under 3 months
Have questions or concerns about your child’s flu symptoms? Don’t wait—contact your healthcare provider. Share this article with other Ottawa parents who need to know about the current flu crisis.
Share this post to help protect Ottawa’s children this flu season.
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