People told to avoid Christchurch ED if possible

The Canterbury District Health Board is urging people to only visit Christchurch Hospital's emergency department in an emergency.

It says a high number of patients and staff sickness mean people will likely be in for a long wait if their condition is not urgent.

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Chief medical officer Helen Skinner said the hospital had 527 patients overnight - 105 people were being treated in the emergency department.

The hospital is asking people to call their GP first.

Christchurch also has three urgent care clinics that can treat a range of conditions.