UK: Hospital declares ’critical incident' as 15 ambulances queue outside A&E

University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Trust declared a “critical incident” due to extreme demand for emergency care, with 15 ambulances queued outside.

Staff face severe pressure as flu cases surge, leading to overcrowded A&E departments and extended waiting times of up to nearly six hours.

Margaret Garbett, chief nurse at University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Trust, highlighted "sustained pressure" with 311 flu inpatients, overcrowded A&Es, and waits of nearly six hours.

Communities are urged to seek alternative care unless facing life-threatening emergencies.