06 Oct 2017 Gannawarra Times, Gannawarra (General News) TWO local hospitals will receive close to $160,000 combined to cope with an increase in demand following one of Victorias worst-ever influenza seasons. The State Government will provide Kerang District Health with $117,792 with Cohuna District Hospital allocated $40,272 as part of the $115 million package. More than 14,000 influenza cases have been reported in the State so far this year, with around 3900 people visiting emergency departments in Victoria during August with symptoms. Member for Northern Victoria, Jaclyn Symes said the funding will support local hospitals to ensure a record number of patients can get the care they need from emergency departments faster, for the remainder of the year. This flu season has hit us hard and every single one of our public hospitals in country Victoria has been working overtime so Victorians can continue to have access to the care they need when they need it, she said. Our dedicated doctors, nurses, paramedics and other healthcare workers have done a remarkable job in the face of unprecedented demand ensuring patients are receiving the first class care they deserve. Licensed by Copyright Agency. You may only copy or communicate this work with a licence.