Omicron Presenting a Math Problem for Washington Hospitals

The Washington State Hospital Association is warning residents that a surge in Omicron cases could be a major problem for hospitals.

Executive Vice President Taya Briley claims hospital space is already more strained than at any other time during the pandemic, with many health systems operating at or above 120% of their intended capacity.

Briley says the state has a math problem; even if most people don't get really sick with Omicron, a lot of people will be getting infected and some portion will get severely ill and need hospital care.

"Even if it's a small portion of the overall total, this could mean a huge number of people getting sick enough to need hospitalization." stated Briley, "They are going to be needing hospitalization in a system that's already more than maxed out."

Briley added that another issue affecting capacity is the amount of people being treated for COVID and other issues in hospitals that could be receiving treatment at home or at a long-term care facility.