BORDERERS have been urged to only attend the emergency department in the case of a 'life-threatening emergency'.
In a statement issued on Wednesday (January 31), the region's health board said there were long queues of people waiting for treatment at Borders General Hospital.
An NHS Borders spokesperson said the emergency department was full.
They added: "Only attend the department if it is a life-threatening emergency.
"If you do need to attend, it is likely that you will have a long wait to be seen. If you have a minor injury or urgent health problem which isn't life-threatening, call NHS 24 on 111.
"Calling 111 first will help us to reduce pressure on our staff and services and help you to get the right care in the right place – often closer to home and without the need to visit the emergency department."
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