THE public has been asked not to attend busy A&Es unless their condition is "very urgent or life-threatening".

Two years since the first national lockdown, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde (NHSGGC) has seen a significant number of patients admitted to hospital due to Covid-19. 

Staffing shortages caused by colleagues being infected or impacted by the virus has also created a 'perfect storm' and increased pressure on already busy A&E departments. 

Dr Scott Davidson, deputy medical director at NHSGGC, said: "It’s two years since the first national lockdown and we’re still very much in the grip of Covid.

"Our hospitals are almost at capacity and our A&Es are extremely busy.

"This is as serious as it gets.

"Our teams are under significant pressure and we need the public to show support by only attending A&E if your condition is very urgent or life-threatening."

Dr Davidson added that by accessing the right care in the right place, patients will be able to avoid lengthy waits in A&E departments and get treatment or advice more quickly. 

He has also urged anyone who does attend the sites to continue to wear face coverings. 

He said: "We’re also asking anyone who is attending our sites to continue to wear a face covering.

"Covid is rife within our communities and we need to protect patients and staff as much as possible – so please, keep wearing a face-covering in our hospitals and health facilities to keep your friends and family safe."

He added: "I want to thank our teams for the incredible work they are doing, under considerable pressure.

"Their commitment to high quality, patient-centred care throughout the health emergency has been second to none."