BOSSES at a Dorset hospital have urged people to only go to its emergency department for 'serious of life-threatening situations' due to rising Covid-19 cases.
Staff at Dorset County Hospital have warned rising cases have 'significantly impacted' emergency services at the site in Dorchester.
The plea was issued on Tuesday (March 22) following a busy period as staff treat numerous patients, causing a 'very high demand on the emergency department'.
Patients with minor injuries that require treatment are being directed to the minor injuries units in and around the surrounding area including Weymouth Hospital.
It is advised that people should call 111 or visit www.111.nhs.uk to find out where they should go to seek medical assistance to avoid people turning up at the emergency department unnecessarily.
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