Bluewater Health has opened up 12 extra "surge" beds to cope with increased demand over the winter flu season.
Earlier this year the health ministry announced funding for 49 additional beds across the Erie St. Clair Local Health Integration Network (LHIN).
Medical Director of Emergency Medicine Dr. Robert Hislop said they're also experiencing higher than normal traffic in the emergency department.
He said they're seeing about 300 patients daily in Sarnia and Petrolia which is double the normal volume.
"Over the holidays, many physicians' offices and walk-in clinics are closed or have reduced hours," said Dr. Hislop. "When people are sick and have nowhere else to go then they legitimately turn up at the emergency department. If somebody has a relatively minor illness that they would normally go to their family physician for, unfortunately, some of those patients will have to wait a little bit longer."
Bluewater Health has strategies within the hospital and with its partners to prepare for the increased number of people needing care, but community members are urged to prepare as well.
Dr. Hislop said it's important to make sure you have enough medication to last until early January.
He said if you're going to holiday parties, wash your hands well to prevent the spreading of germs. Click here for holiday healthcare tips.