NHS Highland has warned health services are under 'extreme pressure' as increasing numbers of staff self-isolate as a result of positive Covid-19 contacts

NHS Highland has warned of extreme pressures on services due to staff self-isolating because of positive Covid-19 contacts.

All services are reporting longer than normal waits.

A statement issued by the health authority said: "Over the last five days, the system has seen increasing numbers of staff having to self-isolate due to positive Covid contacts.

"In addition, primary care, community, mental health and acute services are seeing unprecedented levels of demand.

"All services are reporting very limited capacity with longer than normal waits.

"All steps are being taken to manage patients as safely as possible within the Highland system."

Patients presenting at the emergency departments are being given information on NHS 24 as well as suitable alternatives for care.

The statement added: "To ensure you have the fastest access to the treatment you need, anyone with a non-life-threatening condition who would usually go to accident and emergency should call NHS 24 on 111 first, day or night, to be directed to the right NHS service.

"If you have a life-threatening emergency such as a stroke, bleeding which won't stop, you should call 999."

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