Faced with the intense circulation of influenza and its impact on hospitals, the vaccination campaign is extended until the end of February, the Ministry of Health announced on Wednesday January 22. Seen that “the circulation of influenza viruses is still very active in mainland France and overseas”, “the joint vaccination campaign against influenza and Covid-19 is extended until February 28, 2025” et “fragile people are invited to be vaccinated without delay”according to a press release from the Directorate General of Health.
In France, the flu epidemic is still at “a high level of intensity”in all age groups, and those aged 65 and over represent 67% of hospitalizations after going to the emergency room for flu or influenza-like illness, the ministry noted in particular.
Public Health France also noted a « impact encore important » on deaths and hospital activity “always high” the third week of the year under the effect of this epidemic “with marked severity”in its weekly report published a little earlier.
Cocirculation of the three influenza viruses
“Unusual”the cocirculation of three influenza viruses – two type A viruses, A (H1N1) and A (H3N2), and a type B/Victoria virus –, described to have a different impact depending on age groups, could explain that all age groups are significantly affected, noted the ministry. At the same time, the Covid-19 virus continues to circulate, increasing the risk of co-infections and serious forms, particularly among vulnerable people.
The health authorities, who insist on the “collective mobilization to curb the transmission of respiratory viruses and limit hospitalizations”emphasize that “vaccination and respect for barrier gestures remain fully effective in protecting against the flu, and more generally against winter viruses”.
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In addition to the most vulnerable (65 years and over, people with comorbidities, pregnant women, residents of medico-social establishments, etc.), vaccination is recommended for those around them and for professionals in the medical and social sectors.
Vaccines are available in pharmacies throughout the country, and additional doses available to pharmacies that have expressed their need for additional supplies, reaffirmed the Directorate General of Health.
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