Derriford Hospital in Devon has declared a critical incident due to an overwhelming influx of patients.

On January 5, 2025, the hospital admitted over 300 patients in a single day, including more than 200 inpatients.

The University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust has reported an increase in older patients suffering from respiratory issues, coinciding with cold weather warnings for snow and ice across the UK.

In light of the situation, the hospital has requested that individuals only visit the Accident & Emergency (A&E) department if they are experiencing serious medical conditions.

Darryn Allcorn, chief nurse at the Trust, emphasized the need to prioritize the sickest patients in the Emergency Department and encouraged the use of alternative services such as NHS 111 for non-emergencies.

Allcorn also requested that visitors limit their presence in the Emergency Department to ensure seating for patients and urged everyone to treat hospital staff and each other with respect during this busy period.

This critical incident follows similar declarations from two hospitals in Hampshire and Liverpool Royal Hospital, which cited exceptionally high flu levels.