Strikes could collapse flu-hit NHS amid worst crisis since Covid, says Streeting

The Guardian - World NewsCenter-LeftEN 3 min read 100% complete by Jamie GriersonDecember 12, 2025 at 09:10 AM

AI Summary

medium article 3 min

Health Secretary Wes Streeting warned that planned strikes by resident doctors, combined with a surge in flu cases, could overwhelm the NHS during the Christmas period. Flu hospitalizations have risen sharply, increasing 55% in one week, reaching an average of 2,660 patients daily. Resident doctors are scheduled to strike from December 17-22, though the British Medical Association is voting on a new government offer that could avert the action. While acknowledging the strain on hospitals, NHS England's Dr. Chris Streather stated that the NHS is currently coping and the situation is not comparable to the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic. Streeting is appealing to resident doctors to accept the government's offer to prevent further strain on the NHS.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

UK 50% British Medical Association (BMA) ×280% Wes Streeting ×2100% NHS ×5100%

Keywords

nhs crisis 90% flu cases 80% resident doctor strikes 80% hospital admissions 70% government offer 60% covid pandemic 50% british medical association 50% healthcare 40%