HEALTH bosses are stressing that anyone who has suffered a minor injury can be treated at a nearby minor injury unit rather than rushing off to A&E.Injuries such as a cut, bite, burn, sprain or strain can be treated at minor injury units at Beccles Hospital or the Patrick Stead Hospital in Halesworth.

HEALTH bosses are stressing that anyone who has suffered a minor injury can be treated at a nearby minor injury unit rather than rushing off to A&E.

Injuries such as a cut, bite, burn, sprain or strain can be treated at minor injury units at Beccles Hospital or the Patrick Stead Hospital in Halesworth.

Mary Hardman, deputy director of adult services for NHS Great Yarmouth and Waveney's Community Services, said: “If you need efficient, convenient treatment for a cut, bite, burn, sprain or strain, your local minor injuries unit can help.

“During this time of year there is added pressure on GP practices, hospitals and out-of-hours services because more people are prone to illness, flu and falls.

“The units at Beccles and Halesworth are a faster alternative to A&E which are staffed by fully trained nurses with extensive emergency experience.

“You don't need an appointment and can drop in at any time during opening hours.”

The units can provide advice and treat a wide range of injuries.

Ms Hardman added: “Due to the bad weather we know many people have suffered small injuries such as falls and sprains but rather than wait hours at A&E - you can go to one of the units and be treated there.”

The unit at Patrick Stead, Bungay Road, Halesworth, is open from 8am to 6pm, Monday to Friday, and is available by telephoning 01986 872124.

The unit at Beccles Hospital, St Mary's Road, Beccles, is open seven days a week between 8am to 8pm and can be contacted on 01502 719821.

Ms Hardman added: “Anyone who may be suffering from an illness should contact their GP or pharmacist for treatment advice or call NHS Direct on 0845 46 47 or go to www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk.”