The Montreal Children's Hospital and Ste. Justine's Hospital are advising parents that emergency rooms are very busy.

Doctors say many parents bring children to the ER when they suffer from flu-like symptoms, vomiting or diarrhea, and it's not truly necessary.

They say children with those symptoms are better off being treated at home with rest -- several days if necessary -- and plenty of fluids.

The hospitals also advise bringing children with the flu or gastro into a public place just risks making other people sick.

They've compiled a list of suggestions for when children should be brought in for emergency treatment, and that includes:

  • having trouble breathing
  • a broken bone or needing stitches
  • a child hurts himself and is vomiting
  • an infant with a temperature over 38 C
  • a rash that does not turn white when pressed
  • vomiting with diarrhea, no tears, a dry mouth, and only 2-3 urinations in 24 hours

Children that are ill but not having a true emergency should go to a family doctor or pediatrician.

When in doubt, or for more information, people can call Info-Santé at 8-1-1 and speak to a nurse.