High demand at Isle of Man's emergency department

Manx Care has urged residents to consider if emergency care is required

People with minor injuries have been asked not to attend the Isle of Man's main emergency department due to "extremely high demand".

Manx Care said there had been a "sustained increase in the numbers of patients who needed to be admitted" at Noble's Hospital.

Staff are focussing on treating "the most sick patients" so waiting times to be seen for minor illnesses had been "significantly extended", a spokesman said.

Those in need of urgent or emergency treatment should still attend the island's main hospital or call 999.

Residents with non-urgent concerns have been encouraged to visit the Minor Injuries and Illnesses Unit at Ramsey Cottage Hospital or contact The Manx Emergency Doctor Service.

Treatment may also be available from local pharmacies or Specsavers' Minor Eye Conditions Scheme, Manx Care said.