THE A&E departments at both Worcestershire Royal Hospital and Redditch’s Alexandra Hospital are experiencing an unprecedented amount of demand for this time of year today.

Hospital bosses in Worcestershire are calling on anyone considering going to A&E to think about whether they really need emergency treatment.

Minor accidents such as cuts, sprains and rashes can be treated at Minor Injury Units in Malvern, Evesham, Kidderminster, Tenbury and Bromsgrove, where average waiting times are only about 20 minutes – much shorter than at A&E.

Pharmacists can also offer advice and over-the-counter remedies for conditions such as diarrhoea, minor infections, headaches or coughs and colds as well as twists and sprains.

Anyone unsure of whether they should visit A&E can call NHS 111.

For more information on MIUs in the county visit www.hacw.nhs.uk/our-services/minor-injuries-units.

Full information on all healthcare options available in the county can be found at www.isaandeforme.com.

Choking, chest pain, blacking out, blood loss and fractures are all considered emergencies and those with these symptoms should always go to A&E.