Cornwall's NHS services declare a critical incident
It follows sustained pressure at the county's main hospital and emergency department over the weekend
Cornwall's health and care leaders have declared a "critical incident" following "sustained pressure" at the county's main hospital and emergency department over the weekend.
People are being asked not to go to Royal Cornwall Hospital's emergency department unless you have a "life or limb-threatening emergency".
Kate Shields, Chief Executive of the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Integrated Care Board said: "Clinicians right across the county are working exceptionally hard to provide care based on peoples' clinical need.
"Other NHS services are available and we encourage you to use them whenever possible. These include pharmacies, out-of-hours GP services, NHS 111 and our network of minor injury units.
"We urgently need your support to make sure we can see those who are sickest and have the greatest need.
"Families, friends and neighbours are urged to help us too by offering to support someone waiting for home care to leave hospital sooner and we would ask them to contact the ward directly if they can help in any way."
Patients who come to the Emergency Department and who can be treated elsewhere will be directed to those services.