People are being asked to "explore all other options available to them" before attending Cork University Hospital's Emergency Department.

The Hospital has been "exceptionally busy" in recent days, and people are being asked, where appropriate, to contact their GP in the first instance and look at other options if their needs are not urgent.

Local Injury Units in Mallow General Hospital, Bantry General Hospital and Mercy Urgent Care Centre, as well as other private healthcare facilities, are being advised as options for people/

A statement from CUH states: "Patient care is paramount in CUH and this situation is being treated as a priority by Hospital Management who have taken steps to address this issue.

"Hospital Management wishes to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of all staff during this very busy time."

Information on some of the other healthcare facilities available to people who do not have urgent needs was also provided:

Mercy Urgent Care Centre, St. Mary’s Health Campus, Gurranabraher, Cork 

Opening hrs. 8:00am to 6.00pm 

Telephone - 021-4926900 

Local Injuries Unit Bantry General Hospital:

Opening hrs. 8:00am to 7:30pm.

Telephone 027 50133 

Local Injuries Unit, Mallow: General Hospital.

Opening hrs. 8:00am to 7:00 pm.

Telephone 022 – 58506.