Health chiefs are warning people not to use Addenbrooke’s Hospital’s accident and emergency ward due to high demand.

The Cambridgeshire Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) is urging people to go to another hospital or NHS service if they are not in a serious or life-threatening condition.

Dr Neil Modha, GP and chief clinical pfficer at Cambridgeshire and Peterborough CCG, said: “When you or a family member is unwell it can be confusing to know how to get the best health advice and treatment. We would suggest calling NHS 111 - it’s free and easy to dial; simply call 111. You will speak to a trained individual who can give you advice or direct you to the correct service, which can help patients avoid unnecessary journeys or long waits.

“Many patients just need a little guidance to manage coughs, colds or similar, and your local pharmacist can help with free, expert and confidential advice on medication for minor ailments and illnesses if you need it. Some GP practices offer telephone consultations or open appointments at the end of surgeries, you can give your local GP practice a call to see if they offer these.

“Please remember, visiting accident and emergency departments with relatively minor health issues causes pressure in busy departments that are designed to treat patients with urgent and sometimes life-threatening conditions. Our NHS staff in A&E do an amazing job every day. Let’s help them by using their services wisely.”