A SURGE in cases of flu and chest infections is still stretching staff at Borders General Hospital.

And an appeal remains in place for only people with serious illnesses and injuries to attend the Accident and Emergency department.

But staff have seen the pressure starting to ease since an initial appeal was made earlier in the week.

High demand for A&E services over last weekend and into this week had led to problems with bed-blocking in other wards.

Following a public appeal on Tuesday for patients to stay away from A&E unless it was an emergency has led to the pressure easing.

A spokeswoman for NHS Borders told us: "The pressure on our Accident and Emergency department is easing - however we are still looking after some very sick people and are continuing to see an increase in cases of influenza and respiratory infections.

"To help us take care of those who need it most we ask that only people with a serious illness or injury attend A&E."

Patients who have injuries and illnesses that are not deemed emergencies are being advised to make appointments with their local GP.

And in some instances community pharmacies can also help with certain ailments.

The spokeswoman added: “There are a wide range of NHS services available to provide you with the appropriate treatment and care, for example GP surgeries, community pharmacies and minor injury units.

"For very minor illnesses, ailments and injuries, self-care is the best choice and a wide range of information can be found online at: www.nhsinform.scot

“If you or someone you care for is unwell when your GP is closed contact the NHS 24 helpline on 111.

If the condition is immediately life threatening, dial 999 for an emergency ambulance.”