The public is being urged to consider alternatives to Cork’s emergency departments as hospitals deal with extremely high levels of activity.

Cork University Hospital and Mercy University Hospital have both seen a high number of presentations in recent days, with long waiting times reported for some patients.

HSE South West is asking people who do not require urgent or emergency care to consider other services instead.

These include GPs, Local Injury Units at St Mary’s and Mallow General Hospital, pharmacists and SouthDoc out-of-hours services.

However, anyone who needs urgent or emergency treatment is still being advised to attend an Emergency Department.

The HSE said the request is aimed at helping reduce pressure on both hospitals and ensuring emergency services remain available for those who need them most.