The HSE South West is advising that UHK remains very busy and should only be attended if emergency care is needed.
It says the hospital’s emergency department is experience long delays due to high demand and serious illness.
Meanwhile, 28 patients are waiting on trolleys in University Hospital Kerry.
The HSE is advising that patients with less urgent problems may experience longer wait times at UHK, as it prioritises the most seriously ill.
It says people should consider all care options, including GPs, pharmacists, SouthDoc out-of-hours services, or minor injuries units, before attending the ED.
As part of the HSE South West Caring for Kerry campaign, it’s advising that local injury units have shorter waiting times.
The units also provide consultant-led assessment and treatment - including X-rays, fracture treatment, burns treatment, and wound care.
The HSE says injury units in Mallow, Bantry and Cork City are as easily accessible to residents in parts of Kerry, as UHK.
Meanwhile, 28 patients waiting on trolleys in University Hospital Kerry today, according to INMO figures.
21 people are on trolleys in UHK’s emergency department, while a further seven patients are waiting on trolleys in wards elsewhere within the hospital.
Nationally, 579 people are waiting for beds in hospitals across the country today.
