Vaccination urged for high-risk groups

Dr. Catherine Grenier, national medical advisor for the French Health Insurance Fund, is urging high-risk individuals to get vaccinated as soon as possible. She notes that the virus is already circulating even with mild temperatures and that the vaccine needs two weeks to offer full protection.

2025-2026 flu epidemic had high mortality

According to the Weekly Epidemiological Bulletin (BEH) from Santé publique France, the 2025-2026 influenza epidemic lasted 10 weeks and began in early December. It resulted in an estimated 12,140 excess deaths, with 90% of those deaths occurring in people aged 65 and over.

Epidemic impact varied across healthcare settings

The 2025-2026 flu season showed an unusual contrast in its impact. While primary care consultations remained low to moderate, hospitals and medical and social care establishments (EMS) experienced significant strain. There were 115,000 emergency room visits, 21% of which led to hospitalization, and 1,600 reports of grouped influenza cases in EMS.

Vaccination coverage remains low

In its September 15 bulletin, Santé publique France highlighted the low vaccination rates among both patients and healthcare workers. A flu vaccination campaign began on October 13, aiming to boost coverage ahead of a planned mandate for seasonal influenza vaccination for healthcare professionals.

Joint flu and Covid vaccination campaign starts

A joint vaccination campaign against both flu and Covid-19 began on October 13. Nearly 21 million people have been invited to get vaccinated. The French Health Insurance Fund plans an information campaign from October 17 to December 20 to encourage hesitant individuals to take part.

New access points for vaccines

For the first time this season, doctors, midwives, private nurses, and health centers can now stock flu and Covid-19 vaccines at their offices. The flu vaccine is especially recommended for people aged 65 and over, those with chronic illnesses, transplant recipients, pregnant women, and healthcare workers.