NHS Warned of Collapse Amid Super Flu Surge and Strikes
The NHS is under severe pressure as a sharp rise in so-called “super flu” cases coincides with planned resident doctor strikes before Christmas. Health Secretary Wes Streeting warned the health service is close to collapse, citing record flu hospitalisations and workforce shortages.
Official NHS data shows flu admissions have risen 55% in a week, reaching an average of 2,660 patients per day—far higher than the same period last year. The surge is linked to a new influenza A strain, H3N2, which experts say spreads more easily due to lower population immunity and can cause more severe illness.
A five-day strike by resident doctors is scheduled from December 17 to 22, though talks continue between the government and the BMA. The union is consulting members on a new offer that includes expanded training posts, priority access for UK-trained doctors, and funding for exams and professional fees.
Streeting said patient safety cannot be guaranteed if strikes proceed during the flu surge, urging doctors to reconsider the timing. Meanwhile, the UK Health Security Agency is encouraging eligible groups to get vaccinated, noting that this year’s flu jab remains effective against H3N2.The NHS is under severe pressure as a sharp rise in so-called “super flu” cases coincides with planned resident doctor strikes before Christmas. Health Secretary Wes Streeting warned the health service is close to collapse, citing record flu hospitalisations and workforce shortages.
Official NHS data shows flu admissions have risen 55% in a week, reaching an average of 2,660 patients per day—far higher than the same period last year. The surge is linked to a new influenza A strain, H3N2, which experts say spreads more easily due to lower population immunity and can cause more severe illness.
A five-day strike by resident doctors is scheduled from December 17 to 22, though talks continue between the government and the BMA. The union is consulting members on a new offer that includes expanded training posts, priority access for UK-trained doctors, and funding for exams and professional fees.
Streeting said patient safety cannot be guaranteed if strikes proceed during the flu surge, urging doctors to reconsider the timing. Meanwhile, the UK Health Security Agency is encouraging eligible groups to get vaccinated, noting that this year’s flu jab remains effective against H3N2.
