The NHS is facing a tidal wave of flu

Responding to the winter sitrep figures published by NHS England, the chief executive of NHS Providers, Daniel Elkeles, said:

"The NHS is facing a tidal wave of flu.

"It’s very worrying to see the figures at a record high for the time of year – and still heading up.

"That’s alongside all the other winter bugs piling the pressure on the NHS.

"The last thing anyone needs now is the prospect of another strike by resident doctors, bringing yet more disruption and distress for patients.

"We urge the BMA to see sense, get round the table with the government, and end the dispute, so we can have all hands on deck in the lead up to Christmas."