Some routine surgeries and appointments at the Janeway next week are being cancelled due to an increase in the number of children being admitted with respiratory illness.

Those affected are being contacted individually.

Eastern Health says staff and physicians are continuing to meet demand by mobilizing additional resources, as well as waiting areas and treatment spaces, to accommodate the ER and in-patient units.

The health authority is also asking families to consider making an appointment with their own doctor for non-urgent issues before heading to the Janeway emergency department.

Families are urged to stay current with flu and COVID vaccines, stay home when sick, wash hands frequently and wear masks in public to limit the spread of viruses.