A COLCHESTER doctor claims GPs are “already drowning” with extra work caused by swine flu, as negotiations to get them to vaccinate children flounder.

The British Medical Association has refused to agree to a Government deal to vaccinate all children under five, amid concerns over the extra workload.

Dr Richard Wright, of the Shrub End Surgery, said his practice was already struggling with existing work to vaccinate people with Health problems and pregnant women.

He said: “Our day surgery has been overwhelmed because of the evening sessions we have lost to give swine flu vaccinations.

“We’re already drowning under all the vaccination work at what is always a busy time before Christmas and would struggle to take on more.”

Dr Wright has backed the BMA’s calls for support for GPs to enable them to handle the extra work.

He added: “The Department for Health is trying to squeeze a quart in a pint pot, but apart from doctors, I don’t know anyone else who can do vaccinations.”

Doctors have been offered £5.25 per vaccination, but the BMA argues the extra work will mean they will not be able to honour contractual obligations to give most patients appointments within 48 hours, as well as allowing them to book in advance.

Health Secretary Andy Burnham said the breakdown of talks was “disappointing”, but hoped the vaccination of children will start before Christmas.

Jan Yates, director of public health improvement for NHS Mid Essex, said: “Discussions regarding the delivery of phase two of the swine flu vaccination programme are taking place now.

“We are working hard to put local arrangements in place that will enable vaccination for children over six months and under five years to go ahead.

“Once discussions have been finalised, parents will receive an invitation for their children to be vaccinated.”