As respiratory cases in children remain high, the South East Regional Health Authority (SERHA) has intensified its call for parents and guardians to use clinics where possible, to reduce the mounting pressure at hospitals.

Last week, SERHA’s Regional Director, Errol Greene told IRIE FM News, that the increase in respiratory illnesses, especially among children, has overwhelmed the resources at some of the region’s hospitals.

Mr. Greene had pointed out, that the Spanish Town hospital in St. Catherine, and the Bustamante Hospital for Children, were the most impacted.

In providing an update last evening, Mr. Greene noted that despite efforts to deal with the increase in children admitted due to respiratory illness, the hospitals remain overwhelmed.

He is urging parents to utilize clinics, where possible, adding that the opening hours at these facilities have been extended to help with the patient load.