England's National Health Service is facing a severe double crisis as resident doctors begin a five-day strike while hospitals grapple with record levels of flu cases. The industrial action commenced on Wednesday, 17 December 2025, after members of the British Medical Association (BMA) overwhelmingly rejected the government's latest pay offer.
Strike Action Amid a 'Superflu' Warning
The timing of the walkout has intensified concerns, as it coincides with what health officials are warning is a 'superflu' season causing unprecedented pressure on hospitals. Health Secretary Wes Streeting has expressed "genuine fears" for the NHS, stating that the current flu pressures represent the most challenging situation since the peak of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Mr Streeting also criticised the timing of the strike, suggesting that the BMA had chosen dates specifically to 'inflict the most damage' on the health service. NHS England has confirmed that the strike will inevitably lead to the rescheduling of a significant number of appointments and procedures, affecting thousands of patients across the country.
BMA Criticises Government Approach
The British Medical Association, which represents the striking doctors, has hit back at the government's strategy. The union has condemned what it describes as 'hurried, last-minute offers' from ministers, arguing that they fail to address the long-term erosion of pay for junior doctors. Instead, the BMA is demanding a credible, long-term resolution to the ongoing dispute over pay and conditions.
In response to the escalating flu crisis, NHS leaders have made an urgent public plea. They are strongly encouraging everyone who is eligible to get their flu vaccination as soon as possible to help protect themselves and reduce the strain on overstretched hospital services.
A Perfect Storm for the NHS
The convergence of the five-day strike with the surge in flu admissions has created what many are calling a 'perfect storm' for the health service. The situation threatens to cause significant disruption across emergency departments, elective care, and general practice.
With the strike action now underway and flu cases continuing to rise, the coming days will be a critical test for the resilience of the NHS in England. The focus remains on finding a negotiated settlement to the pay dispute while managing the immediate operational pressures caused by this dual challenge.
