Hospitals in Birmingham are on high alert following a dramatic surge in coronavirus cases. At present 68 people are receiving treatment for the deadly bug in the city.
Seven of those at the Queen Elizabeth and Heartlands hospitals who have the virus are currently fighting for their lives in intensive care, Birmingham Mail reported.
A further 32 are 'actively infectious', meaning they have tested positive in the past fortnight. Dr David Rosser, chief executive at University Hospitals Birmingham, said he expects the number to double week on week in the city from now on.
The medical chief called for local restrictions to stop the rate of infection. "If I had a vote (about local measures) I would say to do something now," he said.