Whiston Hospital Faces Long A&E Waits Amid Winter Virus Surge

High levels of patient demand are affecting emergency care. The NHS advises non-urgent cases to use GPs or NHS 111 for treatment.

Transcript

00:00Patients at Wiston Hospital in Merseyside faced extremely long waits over the weekend as hospitals experienced high demand.

00:08The NHS Trust says winter viruses circulating in the community added pressure to emergency services.

00:15People with non-urgent conditions are advised to contact their GP or NHS 111 rather than attend accident and emergency.

00:24Some patients report being told by GPs to go to A&E, adding to queues.

00:28Social media posts described ambulances waiting outside and patients waiting hours for beds.

00:35The Trust said staff prioritise care by clinical need and work with partners to reduce delays.

00:41Officials urge the public to reserve A&E for serious illness.