Portable hospital set up to handle increase in flu patients
-
Hospitals across the Valley are reporting an increase in patients at E.R. rooms. This comes as a rise of the flu hits across the country. Video by ktnv.com
video
Las Vegas, NV (KTNV) -- Hospitals across the Valley are reporting an increase in patients at E.R. rooms. This comes as a rise of the flu hits across the country.
A large blue tent is hard to miss outside Spring Valley Hospital. The inflatable 90 feet by 39 feet hospital is up in response to the national epidemic. It only took two hours to erect the building, and set up the 16 beds that go inside complete with I.V. bars, and windows to let some natural light in.
The tent belongs to the City of Las Vegas but they're sharing it with Spring Valley Hospital and several other county and state agencies. Officials say the peak of flu season is January and February.
"The most important thing is to get your flu shot. Everyone should get their flu shot especially children and the elderly who are the most susceptible," said Dr. Kathleen Cornia, Medical Director of the hospital's Emergency Department. "In addition, if you're sick please stay home. Don't go to school. Don't go to work. Don't go out to the mall if you're sick. Cover you're cough, and wash your hands frequently."
The blow up facilities cost $182,000 and was paid with a grant from the Department of Homeland Security.
This site uses Facebook comments to make it easier for you to contribute. If you see a comment you would like to flag for spam or abuse, click the "x" in the upper right of it. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use.