A hospital in Birmingham has announced that all elective procedures are being postponed due to a “significant rise” in “very sick” patients.

The seriously ill patients include both those with COVID-19 and those with other illnesses too, according to a statement from University Hospitals Birmingham.

Procedures have been suspended at Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham, and gynaecology procedures at Good Hope Hospital have also been paused.

Universities Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust is the largest hospital trust in England.

The statement making the announcement said: “This is an extremely difficult decision and has not been taken lightly. We know that affected patients will be distressed and upset with this decision, and for this we can only apologise.

“However, we must ensure that all those needing urgent care are able to access treatment safely.

“Cancer treatment and life-saving care will remain our priority. All patients affected by this announcement will be contacted individually to rearrange their postponed surgery.”

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