Most of the area ER's closed? Yikes!

Was just watching the news on Channel 9, they reported that a significant number of ER's either are closed or have been closed at some time the past day or two to all but life or death emergencies, apparently because of the flu.

Now I can see the very young or old, or those with severe health problems going to the ER because of the flu, but everyone else? Considering that there is nothing they can give you to make it go away, I am surprised that people spend the time and money to get that checked out when there is nothing the doctor can do anyway. I could see seeing your regular doctor, but going to the ER? Maybe I am missing something here. Knowing it costs a fortune, that you may wait hours just to be told tylenol, rest and fluids, seems like a waste.

You can read the story from the Channel 9 website at the link below:
http://www.thekansascitychannel.com/health/4201741/detail.html