NHS Strike and Flu Outbreak

Introduction to the Crisis

The Prime Minister has urged GPs not to carry out “reckless” strikes planned for next week, saying it is “inconceivable” they could take place during a flu outbreak. The NHS is facing its most challenging moment since the coronavirus pandemic due to rising flu cases across the UK, and strikes would put the health system and its patients in "great danger".

The British Medical Association’s Stance

The British Medical Association (BMA) is asking its members whether they are prepared to call off the strike. The results will be published on Monday. If they vote against it, there is a risk of a five-day strike by practicing doctors beginning two days later on Wednesday, December 17th. A BMA spokesman said the government could stop the strike by addressing wages, working conditions, and trust with a credible offer.

The Flu Outbreak

The flu broke out early this winter, and it’s shaping up to be a particularly bad season as a new mutated version of the virus is circulating, experts say. Many now call it the “super flu,” but it is no more serious or difficult to treat. According to NHS England, an average of 2,660 patients per day were in hospital with flu in England last week – the highest ever for this time of year and a 55% increase compared to the week before.

Impact on the UK

Flu cases are also increasing in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, figures show. According to health authorities, children and young people are particularly affected by the outbreak. The situation is critical, with the NHS facing unprecedented pressure.

Government Intervention

The Prime Minister has written that the strikes "must not happen" and said junior doctors should agree to an agreement to avert industrial action. The Government has given the BMA the option to postpone strikes until after Christmas. The aim of the offer is to address the problems some doctors have when looking for work and to provide more training places for newly qualified doctors so that they can advance their careers.

Preparations and Next Steps

The BMA will ask its members whether the government’s offer would be enough to call off the strikes on Wednesday. If members answer yes, they will be given time to consider the offer in more detail and a formal follow-up referendum will be held on fully resolving the dispute. The government and the BMA are working to find a solution to the crisis, but the situation remains uncertain.