AA / Paris / Ümit Dönmez
The flu is emerging as the major epidemic this winter in France, with a striking increase in cases in all regions and age groups, according to Santé Publique France.
In its weekly report published this Thursday, the health agency calls for vigilance in the face of the combination of winter viruses, while indicators skyrocket.
Activity linked to acute respiratory infections (ARI) increased sharply in week 51 (December 16 to 22, 2024), whether in community medicine or in hospitals. According to the bulletin published on December 26, the rate of consultations for influenza-like illness jumped to 347 cases per 100,000 inhabitants, compared to 235 the previous week. Children under the age of 15 are the most affected, but seniors aged 65 and over also record a clear increase in emergency room visits and hospitalizations.
At the same time, the bronchiolitis epidemic is showing signs of slowing down, although the situation remains tense among those under two years old. Around 30.4% of hospitalizations in this age group are linked to this pathology. Public Health France specifies that the intensity of the epidemic is generally less compared to winters before the COVID-19 pandemic.
Unlike the flu, indicators relating to COVID-19 remain generally stable, with an incidence rate of 19 cases per 100,000 inhabitants. However, the positivity rate of samples taken at the hospital increased slightly, from 5.3% to 6.9%. Hospital data shows pressure under control, but health authorities remain attentive to developments in the situation.
In the context of the end-of-year holidays, Public Health France recalls the importance of barrier gestures to slow the spread of winter viruses. Hand washing, ventilation of rooms and wearing a mask in the event of symptoms remain essential, particularly to protect the most vulnerable people.
The vaccination campaigns against influenza and COVID-19, launched in October, are continuing. They primarily target populations at risk, including seniors, pregnant women and people with comorbidities. Passive immunization of infants against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is also promoted through adapted strategies, such as vaccination of pregnant women or administration of monoclonal antibodies.
With the simultaneous circulation of several viruses, the health system is facing increased pressure. Health authorities are calling for collective mobilization to limit the effects of this wave of respiratory infections. The coming days will be crucial to contain the epidemic dynamics and preserve hospital capacities.
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