Six hospitals have issued a joint urging people not to attend A&E unless for "genuine, life-threatening situations" after a surge in patient numbers left some facing a wait of up to 12 hours.
NHS trusts in West Yorkshire and Harrogate in North Yorkshire say they have been forced to prioritise those suffering with acute illness or injuries due to current patient demand.
Last month the hospitals, which cover areas of more than 2.5 million people, released a statement saying Covid patients are still placing 'significant strain' on staff and services, according to the Mirror.