Though I applaud Whidbey News-Times reporter Jenny Manning for an accurate and good article (“Got flu? Stay away from the ER,” Oct. 28), I definitely did not say: “Stay away from the ER.” While it summarizes our discussion, that specific phrase was generated by the paper, and hopefully prompted you to read the rest of the article.

My fellow physicians, nurses, and staff are here to take care of the people of Whidbey Island. We are here to ensure that you do well, and we would rather you err toward coming into the ER, or seeing your doctor, when in doubt.

The flu that we are seeing is different in some ways from the usual seasonal flu, but in general is no more worrisome, so far. If you are feeling worse than the usual cold makes you feel, or if you are feeling like you “need more air than usual, and can’t get it,” getting checked out either in the ER, or at your own doctor’s office, is a very good idea.

During my four years as director of the WGH Emergency Department I have worked hard to ensure that we offer the best emergency care available anywhere in the world.

Before my family moved to Whidbey Island I was a full time clinical professor of Emergency Medicine at UC Davis. I know what excellence in emergency care is, and will not be satisfied with providing less than the very best for my community.

Mark Borden MD, FAAEM

Medical Director

Whidbey General

Emergency Department