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Doctors Strike: NHS Faces Weekend Strain
20 Dec
Summary
- Resident doctors' five-day strike ends Monday morning.
- NHS urges public to use services as normal despite strike.
- Flu cases surge, reaching a record high for this time of year.
Resident doctors' five-day strike is concluding this weekend, with their return to work scheduled for Monday morning. Throughout the industrial action, NHS England has emphasized that services are operational and urged the public to seek care as usual. Patients in emergencies should call 999, while non-urgent needs can be addressed via NHS 111, GP, or pharmacy.
This period of industrial action coincides with a significant increase in flu cases across England. Daily hospital admissions for flu have risen by 18% week-on-week, reaching a record high for this point in the year. Despite these rising figures, the UK Health Security Agency notes that flu levels are beginning to stabilize. NHS officials continue to promote flu vaccinations as the best form of protection.
Public concern about winter A&E waits is high, with recent polling indicating widespread worry. Health advocates are calling for emergency government packages to address overcrowding and improve patient care. NHS leaders are thanking staff working extra hours to cover for striking colleagues and ensure continuous patient support.
