MEDICS are urging Wirral people not to attend Arrowe Park Hospital’s Accident and Emergency unit unless it is absolutely necessary.

And they warn an outbreak of norovirus – the “winter vomiting bug” - is adding to already severe problems.

A statement by the hospital trust said the number of people going to A&E and calling 999 has caused “severe pressure” on the health service over the last few days.

“NHS teams across Wirral are working extremely hard to cope with this demand,” it says.

In order to ensure emergency services are able to deal with the most urgent cases, the NHS is advising people with minor illness or injuries to go to walk-in centres or clinics, and to avoid attending casualty unless it is a genuine emergency.

The trust also warns there is an outbreak of norovirus in the community.

This virus is highly contagious and can affect hospital patients and staff, leading to outbreaks and ward closures.

Pateients should avoid visiting hospitals, health centres and GP surgeries if they are experiencing symptoms of vomiting or diarrhoea or if they have had recent contact with someone who has experienced these symptoms.

People needing treatment for minor ailments should visit the following units: Eastham walk-in-centre, Victoria Central health centre in Wallasey, or the all-day health centre at Arrowe Park Hospital.

There are also GP practice-based minor illness and injury services at Birkenhead Medical Building, Parkfield medical centre, Holmlands medical centre and Moreton health clinic.

Patients needing advice from a doctor between 6.30pm and 8am should contact the GP out-of-hours service on: 0151 678 8496.

Anyone unsure what to do should contact the NHS by dialling 111.