In France, hospitalizations linked to the flu epidemic are increasing in number. People over 65 are most affected.
- The flu epidemic is progressing in France.
- According to Public Health France, hospitalizations linked to the disease are at an exceptionally high level.
- People over the age of 65 represent nearly 70% of hospitalizations following a visit to the emergency room, and 92% of deaths linked to the disease.
France sees red. In his last newsletterPublic Health France has placed all French regions at the maximum alert level for the flu. Martinique and Guadeloupe are classified in the same category. Mayotte and Guyana are at pre-epidemic level. According to the organization, hospitalizations are at a level “particularly pupil“compared to previous years.
Flu: how is the epidemic progressing in France?
Between December 30, 2024 and January 5, 2025, the influenza epidemic increased in mainland France. “In town, the increase in activity was less significant compared to the previous two weeks, probably linked to the holiday period.note Public Health France. On the other hand, in the hospital we still observed a strong increase in indicators in all age groups except for those aged 5-14.“Over this period, 18,391 people went to the emergency room following a flu-like illness.”The share of hospitalizations for influenza or influenza-like illness, among hospitalizations for all causes, was at an exceptionally high level of intensity in all age groups.notes the organization. But the elderly remain the most vulnerable to the virus. Those aged 65 and over represent 69% of hospitalizations after a visit to the emergency room for flu or influenza-like illness. In this context, around thirty hospitals have triggered a blank plan, in order to be able to take exceptional measures, such as the postponement of certain operations, to cope with the influx of patients.
Epidemic: more than 400 deaths linked to flu
There are also more flu-related deaths. “In week 01, among the 7,894 deaths declared by electronic certificate, 6% were reported with a mention of influenza as a morbid condition having directly caused or contributed to the death (vs. 3.9% in W52), the report said. This proportion was higher than the data observed at the peak of the last two seasons (4.5% in 2022-23 and 4% in 2023-24).” People over 65 accounted for 92% of the 471 flu-related deaths.
Flu: vaccination and barrier gestures are necessary to protect yourself from the virus
Faced with the progression of the epidemic, Public Health France recalls effective measures to reduce the impact of the virus. “Vaccination remains the best way to protect yourself against influenza and COVID-19, particularly severe forms of these diseases.warns the organization. It is essential to recommend vaccination to all eligible people, in order to protect them and those around them.” On a daily basis, and for everyone, barrier gestures are the best solution to protect yourself from the virus: regular hand washing, ventilation of rooms and wearing a mask in the event of symptoms.
