Non-urgent patients have been warned of long waits in A&E and have been urged to “consider other options. | ITV National News

NHS hospitals across England have declared critical incidents because of a surge in flu-related hospital admissions.

The NHS in Northamptonshire has declared a critical incident - meaning there is mounting pressure on health services which are at full capacity. Ongoing demand, particularly at Northampton and Kettering general hospitals have culminated in this escalation.

It comes as several other NHS trusts throughout England have declared critical incidents over the last week over similar issues with flu and respiratory illnesses.

Hospitals in Birmingham, Hampshire, Liverpool and Plymouth have declared critical incidents following a surge in patients with respiratory issues

Hospitals in Hampshire, Liverpool and Plymouth have declared critical incidents following a surge in patients with respiratory issues