Indiana health officials are expecting a spike in coronavirus cases across the state, and are preparing to open vacant hospitals.

An increase in cases means more hospital visits, an the surge in patients would be overwhelming to local health departments.

WSBT reports the surge, which is expected between mid-April and mid-May, has those departments seeking to make sure beds will be available. That could include the reopening of the old St. Joseph Hospital near downtown Mishawaka, which could help treat less-critical patients during a surge. The St. Joseph Health Department says a lot of work needs to be done before the facility would be ready.