NHS Braces for record Flu Surge as Doctor Strikes Loom
London, UK - The National Health Service is facing an unprecedented surge in influenza cases, with hospital bed occupancy due to the virus already at record levels for this time of year, NHS leaders warned today. The looming five-day doctor’s strike, beginning December 17th, was described as “cruel” and “calculated” amid the escalating health crisis.
Flu cases are exceptionally high for early December, and health officials report no sign of a peak. Currently, nearly 2% of hospital beds are occupied by flu patients – an average of 1,700 beds last week, the highest figure recorded as data collection began in 2010. NHS England CEO Sir Jim Mackey projected that bed occupancy from flu patients could reach between 5,000 and 8,000 by the end of next week, surpassing the previous peak of 5,400.
Professor Redhead confirmed the severity of the situation, stating, “Today’s numbers confirm our deepest concerns – the health service is bracing for an unprecedented flu wave this winter. Cases are incredibly high for this time of year and there is no peak in sight yet.” He added that staff could be stretched “close to breaking point” in the coming weeks.
The strain on the NHS is further compounded by ongoing industrial action. The British Medical Association members are participating in a five-day walkout in a long-running dispute over pay. Sir Mackey characterized the strike as aimed at “causing mayhem.”
NHS England data reveals notable A&E attendance for non-critical conditions between November 1, 2024, and February 28, 2025, including 6,382 visits for nasal congestion, 83,705 for earache, 96,998 for sore throats, 3,890 for ingrowing nails, 8,669 for itching skin, and 384 for hiccups. these visits were made to major A&E units or minor injury units run by hospitals.
While difficulty accessing GP services is believed to contribute to unneeded A&E visits – with over a fifth of patients unable to reach their GP on the day they attempt – Dr. Vicky Price, president of the Society for Acute Medicine, dismissed the focus on minor ailments as a “smokescreen.” She emphasized that nearly half a million patients have already experienced A&E waits exceeding 12 hours, resulting in a loss of privacy and dignity.
“These delays are not caused by minor ailments but are a result of a failure to address the longstanding issues of capacity, flow and workforce,” Dr. Price stated.
