Minnesota Flu Deaths Reach 50 as Hospitals Face Quad-Demic Surge

Minnesota has recorded its 50th flu-related death this season, as hospitals face a Quad-Demic of influenza, COVID-19, RSV, and norovirus.
Flu cases are still at historic highs compared to previous years, though numbers have started to decline since the holidays. Pediatric flu deaths remain at zero, according to the Minnesota Department of Health.
Hospitals in the Twin Cities are overwhelmed. Children’s Minnesota reported over four-hour emergency room waits for non-critical patients on Friday, while St. Paul’s United Hospital has begun treating patients in waiting rooms.
The surge is also disrupting activities statewide. In Grant County, a boys’ basketball game was postponed Saturday because of illness.
Health officials urge everyone to take precautions to protect themselves and others. Stay tuned to Lakes Area Radio for updates.