KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Hospitals across Kansas City are delaying non-emergency surgeries as a surge in flu cases overwhelms the healthcare system and exacerbates existing staff shortages.
Flu Surge Strains Kansas City Hospitals
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A notable rise in influenza cases is forcing difficult decisions about patient care and resource allocation in the metro area.
- As of January 7, the University of Kansas Health System reported 46 patients with the flu, five requiring intensive care.
- To combat staffing shortages and overcrowding, the health system is requiring staff to mask in patient areas and encouraging visitors to do the same.
- Blood donations are declining, compounding the challenges faced by hospitals.
The surge in flu cases is not only impacting patient capacity but also contributing to a growing number of sick staff. “We’ve had a significant number of staff members who have been out sick with the flu, and that’s been a challenge,” said dr. Steve Kumer, medical director of infection prevention at the University of Kansas Health System. “When staff started getting sick.”
hospital Safety Measures Expand
In response to the growing crisis,the University of Kansas Health System now requires all hospital staff to wear masks in public spaces around patients. Visitors are strongly encouraged to wear masks while on campus, and masks are being provided at entrances. Doctors are postponing non-urgent surgeries on a case-by-case basis, prioritizing those that require an inpatient stay. “We are starting to postpone some of those OR and procedural cases that require an in-patient stay,” Kumer said. “If they can be pushed off. It’s about the patient and people taking care of the patient and that’s what we’re working through right now.”
Dr. Steve Stites advised patients to contact their healthcare providers to determine if a telehealth appointment is appropriate, noting that the health system is increasing its telehealth capacity to minimize in-person visits and potential exposure.
Children’s Hospital Implements Visitor Restrictions
Children’s Mercy Hospital is also experiencing “a fair amount of influenza” among its young patients. Staff are prioritizing the use of masks and other protective measures when treating infected children.The hospital has updated its visitation policy, restricting visits from children 12 years old and younger. “Right now, our visitor restrictions restrict children who are 12 and younger from coming to visit in the hospital,” said Dr. Jennifer schuster. “We are doing additional screening to make sure that everyone coming into the hospital is feeling well and healthy.”
Blood Donations drop Amid Flu Surge
The impact of the flu extends beyond hospital capacity, creating a critical shortage of blood donations. Across Kansas City, increased illness is leading to fewer people being able to donate, leaving doctors with limited resources for emergency patients. “The American Red Cross is on the verge of a national blood shortage right now,” said Brie Monetti, regional communications director of the Red Cross.
The Kansas City Community Blood Center reported a 30% decrease in donations throughout 2025, and the current flu surge is further exacerbating the problem. “The flu surge that we’re seeing in Kansas City is directly impacting our blood donations,” a spokesperson said. “We’re seeing canceled appointments every single day.”
The dwindling blood supply directly impacts a hospital’s ability to treat patients in critical condition. “Whether that’s from folks that have been in an accident or sickle cell, there’s no saying how far your donation could actually reach,” Monetti said.
On Friday, the Greater kansas City Red Cross hosted a blood drive at the WWI Museum and Memorial, offering free admission to donors. Throughout January, blood donors are eligible to be entered to win free Super Bowl tickets.
