Patients in Lancashire told stay away from A&E unless it's a genuine emergency

Patients told only use Blackburn hospital in genuine emergency Credit: PA

Hospital bosses in Lancashire are urging the public to use A&E wisely after seeing a huge increase in demand at the Royal Blackburn Hospital over the past two days. The East Lancashire Hospitals NHS Trust say only use A&E in a genuine emergency as there's currently a huge surge in demand.

Patients urged to see GP or pharmacist first Credit: PA

  • Only visit A&E for EMERGENCY treatment.

  • If you need medical help go to GP or call the NHS helpline 111.

  • Non life threatening issues can be treated at the Urgent Care Centre at Burnley General Hospital

  • Minor Injuries Unit at Rossendale Primary Care Centre

  • For coughs, colds, upset stomachs or prescriptions – visit your pharmacist for advice.