Protecting the most vulnerable populations: a symbolic commitment from local authorities
To combat preconceived ideas and encourage vaccination, Thierry Devimeux, Prefect of
Drôme, as well as several agents from the prefecture, were vaccinated against the flu and Covid-
19 this month. This symbolic gesture is part of a collective dynamic aimed at strengthening
confidence in vaccines and encourage more people to get vaccinated.
Faced with the approach of winter, and in a health context marked by the circulation of influenza and
of Covid-19, it is crucial to act to protect the most vulnerable populations.
The Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes Regional Health Agency and the prefecture wish to remind
actions to take in the event of symptoms and/or contact with positive people.
Vaccination remains the most effective tool to prevent serious forms of these diseases, and this gesture
simple can save lives. Although barrier gestures, such as wearing a mask or
social distancing, can help limit the transmission of viruses, they do not guarantee
protection as strong as that offered by vaccination. Vaccination not only allows
reduce the risk of contamination, but it remains the most effective way to avoid forms
serious, hospitalizations and deaths.
Insufficient vaccination coverage despite public health challenges
However, despite the recommendations and benefits of vaccination, coverage remains
insufficient in Drôme, as in other departments. Health authorities are concerned about
low vaccination coverage, particularly among the most vulnerable people. Among the
serious cases of flu and Covid-19 admitted to intensive care during the 2023-2024 season, a large
majority of patients were not vaccinated against these viruses, despite the presence of factors
risque.
Flu: vaccination coverage fell from 51% to 47% between the 2022-2023 and 2023-2024 seasons,
especially in people under 65 with chronic illnesses.
Covid-19: only 30% of those over 65 were vaccinated in 2023-2024, and barely more than one
person in ten under 65 with a chronic illness received their booster dose.
50% of people at risk fear the side effects of vaccines.
Free vaccination and 100% coverage for vulnerable people
This vaccination campaign launched on October 15 specifically targets populations
those most at risk of developing a serious form of the flu or Covid-19. These populations
include:
• People aged 65 and over;
• People under 65 suffering from chronic illnesses;
• Pregnant women;
• People with obesity (BMI ≥ 40);
• Those around infants at risk of serious influenza and people
immunocompromised;
• Home help for vulnerable individual employers;
• Professionals exposed to avian and swine influenza viruses;
• People with Down syndrome, psychiatric disorders or dementia, for
vaccination against Covid-19.
These people can benefit from a free flu vaccination upon presentation of the
Vitale card and Health Insurance voucher. In addition, vaccination against
Covid-19 is also free for anyone wishing to be vaccinated, even if they do not
is not part of the defined risk groups.
Health authorities also recommend that those around these vulnerable people,
as well as health professionals and social workers, get vaccinated against the flu
and Covid-19 to protect both vulnerable individuals and the community.
Vaccination against influenza and Covid-19 is accessible to everyone, in particular to people with
risque. Don’t wait: protect yourself and your loved ones.
More information on the website of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes Regional Health Agency:
Covid-19: get vaccinated against the virus | Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes regional health agency
