WAKEFIELD, R.I. -- Dr. William Sabina, director of the emergency room at South County Hospital, said due to a widespread outbreak of influenza, admission rates at his facility "have absolutely skyrocketed for the month of December and [beginning of] January."
He said the facility is experiencing a large number of upper respiratory infections, and a high number of positives for influenza.
In November, there were about 12 confirmed cases at South County Hospital, but more than 400 cases were reported there in December.
Sabina said his facility is seeing two types of flu: One with fever, headaches, upper respiratory infections, and the other with more "flu-like" symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea.
Hospital officials have posted signs and informational posters, along with masks and hand sanitizer for incoming patients.
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