Management of the Midland Regional Hospital in Mullingar are advising the public to consider all health options.
That's after a surge in winter virus cases, including flu and Covid-19 and significant wait times for admission.
The hospital is experiencing a significant increase in the number of people requiring admission at this time.
Hospital management is asking anyone with non-emergency medical conditions to consider using other health services where possible.
This includes their local pharmacist, GP, or a GP out-of-hours service.
The hospital says patients presenting at the emergency department with non-urgent conditions are currently facing very long waiting times.
However, they are stressing that anyone who needs emergency care will be seen, and people should not delay attending the emergency department if they are seriously unwell.
Anyone who suspects they may be having a heart attack or stroke is urged to dial 999 or 112 immediately.
Visiting restrictions also remain in place at the hospital due to high levels of respiratory infections in the community.
Hospital staff and management have apologised for the inconvenience and thanked the public for their understanding and support.
