Vaccination urged for high-risk groups

Dr. Catherine Grenier, national medical advisor for the French Health Insurance Agency, advises that people at risk should get vaccinated as soon as possible, noting that the vaccine requires two weeks to provide optimal protection.

2025-2026 flu epidemic details

According to the weekly epidemiological bulletin (BEH) from Santé publique France dated October 13, the 2025-2026 influenza epidemic lasted 10 weeks, with a relatively early start in early December. During this period, the excess mortality is estimated at 12,140 deaths, of which 90% concern people aged 65 and older.

Comparing recent flu seasons

This figure is significantly higher than the excess mortality from all causes observed during the 2023-2024 (8,100) and 2021-2022 (7,200) influenza epidemics, comparable to 2018-2019 (12,100), and much lower than 2024-2025 (17,600) and 2022-2023 (17,400).

Unusual patterns in the 2025-2026 epidemic

The 2025-2026 epidemic was characterized by an unusual discrepancy between its impact in general practice and that observed in hospitals, in medical-social establishments (EMS), and in terms of excess mortality. In the city, the intensity level remained low to moderate, with 1.2 million consultations, while the impact was major in hospitals, with 115,000 emergency room visits (of which 21% resulted in hospitalization), and in EMS, with 1,600 reports of influenza outbreaks.

Severe impact of the 2025-2026 flu season

Overall, the 2025-2026 epidemic is among the most severe since the last influenza pandemic in 2009. In its weekly epidemiological bulletin dated September 15, Santé publique France also warned about the insufficient vaccination coverage, both among patients and healthcare workers.

Mandatory flu vaccination on the horizon

The flu vaccination campaign launched on October 13 constitutes the first step toward implementing the mandatory vaccination against seasonal flu for professionals, following the adoption of this decision by parliamentarians within the framework of the PLFSS 2026 and the recommendation of the High Authority for Health (HAS) in July 2026.

Preparing for future vaccination requirements

Until the regulatory framework comes into effect, expected by the end of the first quarter of 2027, this period should allow for strengthening vaccination coverage now, facilitating access to vaccination in healthcare facilities and urban care structures, and supporting professionals in preparing for this future obligation.

Combined flu and Covid vaccination efforts

The joint vaccination campaign against Covid includes nearly 21 million people who have already received their vaccination invitation, with the French Health Insurance Agency launching a major information campaign targeting different population groups from October 17 to December 20, with the aim of convincing those who are doubtful to take the step. Several waves of follow-up are planned.

Who should get vaccinated

The flu vaccination is particularly recommended for people aged 65 and older, people with chronic conditions, transplant recipients, pregnant women, the close contacts of immunocompromised patients and newborns, healthcare professionals, and those who work with people at risk of severe forms.

New vaccination access points

On October 13, the vaccination campaign against Covid also begins. A new feature of this season, doctors, midwives, independent nurses, and health centers are now able to stock vaccines against the flu and Covid at their offices.