Government admits antibiotic shortages

Liberal Democrat Health Spokesperson Daisy Cooper has warned that the country is facing a "groundhog day" over issues with the supply of antibiotics needed to treat Strep A.

It comes as Health Minister Maria Caulfield admitted that there are temporary supply issues, during an Urgent Question in Parliament on Strep A secured by the Liberal Democrats.

Maria Caulfield admitted that the government had issued Serious Shortage Protocols (SSPs) several weeks ago, despite claiming at the time there were no issues with the supply of antibiotics.

The Liberal Democrats are calling on the government to act now to address supply issues and ensure that every family can access the antibiotics they need over Christmas.

Liberal Democrat Health Spokesperson Daisy Cooper MP said:

"Parents across the country are worried sick about the sharp rise in Strep A infections and shortage of antibiotics in pharmacies. Some are travelling in desperation from pharmacy to pharmacy looking for antibiotics, while A&E departments are overwhelmed by anxious families unable to access the medical help they need.

"Why on earth did it take so long for the government to come clean over these supply issues, when health professionals have been raising the alarm for over two weeks?

"We seem to be stuck in a medicine shortage groundhog day, following problems with the supply of lateral flow tests and HRT.

"The response from Maria Caulfield today will do little to reassure parents. The government needs to act now to ensure every family can access the antibiotics they need over Christmas."