Something to be aware of.

Cork University Hospital has issued a statement dissuading the public from coming to its emergency department, citing resource shortages and over-subscription.

According to the Irish Nurse and Midwifery Organisation, there were 63 patients in the hospital waiting on trolleys as of yesterday.

The INMO industrial relations officer for the hospital, Liam Conway, said: “The situation is out of control and extremely dangerous. The rate of overcrowding in Cork University Hospital is now so high that we can’t maintain the proper infection control measures needed to prevent the spread of Covid-19.”

In a statement, the hospital said: “Hospital management have requested that, where appropriate, the public contact their GP in the first instance and explore all other options available to them prior to attending the Emergency Department if their needs are not urgent.

“Hospital Management wishes to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of all staff during this very busy time and thank the public for their co-operation and support.”

Details of alternative care providers were offered within the statement:

General Practitioner / South Doc

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.