HSE asks public not to attend A&E unless absolutely necessary

The warning follows high numbers of patients awaiting care in hospitals across the country. As of 8am on Monday, there were 272 patients on trolleys.  Pic: Larry Cummins

The HSE has issued a public warning asking people seeking medical attention not to present at hospital emergency departments unless absolutely necessary.

Its follows an 'extremely busy weekend' with unprecedented numbers of patients awaiting care in hospitals across the country. As of 8am on Monday, there were 272 patients on trolleys.