A recent study by Santé publique France (SPF), published on September 15, highlights that influenza vaccination coverage remains low among elderly individuals and healthcare workers, despite official recommendations. Influenza, which affects around 6 million people in France each year, is recommended and free for those at high risk of severe illness, including the elderly, pregnant women, and healthcare professionals. However, the study shows that vaccination rates are "low and decreasing," with significant disparities based on education, income, and geographic location. The research, led by epidemiologist pharmacist Sophie Vaux, analyzed data from the National Health Data System (SNDS) spanning from 2007 to 2025. It found that vaccination rates have declined since the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic. The study notes that health inequalities are more pronounced in areas with lower income and education levels, particularly among the elderly and pregnant women. In 2024-2025, vaccination coverage was 53.7% among people aged 65 and older, 25.3% for those at risk under 65, and 24.2% for healthcare professionals working in nursing homes (Ehpad), with significant differences between job roles—nurses had a 34.2% coverage rate, while nursing aides had only 19.3%. Geographically, the study reveals that regions in overseas territories and the southern part of Metropolitan France have lower vaccination rates, a trend also observed in other vaccines such as those for HPV, measles, and whooping cough. While residents in nursing homes had the highest coverage at 82.7%, this is still lower than the 90% recorded during the 2020-2021 pandemic period. The study emphasizes that vaccination coverage has not met the 75% target set by health authorities for high-risk individuals and healthcare workers. To address these gaps, the authors of the study recommend "strengthening actions to support vaccination campaigns." In July, the High Authority for Health (HAS) advised making influenza vaccination mandatory for healthcare workers, and the French government is currently considering implementing this policy. The goal is to increase vaccination rates and reduce health disparities across the population.