The HSE is warning the public that it is currently experiencing "one of the busiest ever periods experienced by the health service".
As a result, people across Ireland who are in need of medical care are being asked to consider other options before attending a hospital emergency department.
The alternatives being recommended, for the time being, include attending community pharmacies, GPs, GP out-of-hours services, and minor injury units.
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However, people who are in need of emergency care continue to be encouraged to go to the Emergency Department.
HSE Chief Operations Officer Damien McCallion said the substantially busy time is down to an "unprecedented combination of very high levels of flu, Covid-19, and other respiratory illnesses in the community.
"Those who believe they may be seriously ill and require emergency care should of course come to the hospital, but we would urge others to consider seeking support from pharmacists, GPs, GP Out of Hours Services, and Minor Injury Units," Mr. McCallion said.
"These services have emergency responses in place for patients presenting with respiratory and other urgent health issues."
Cases of Covid and the flu are on the rise once again in Ireland as community transmission continues to increase.
Meanwhile, RSV cases - which had been in a decline - have begun to jump again as parents continue to be warned over common symptoms.
Consultant epidemiologist Dr. Conall Watson told the Times a number of weeks ago: "For children under two, RSV can be severe - particularly for babies and those born prematurely."
This virus is easy to treat, but without medical intervention, it can become more serious so it is imperative to catch it early.
According to the HPSC, Symptoms can appear between 2 to 8 days after a person is infected and include the following:
- Fever
- Runny nose
- Sore throat
- Cough and sometimes croup (a barking cough caused by inflammation of the upper airways)
- Wheezing
- Decreased appetite
- Ear infections (in children)
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