“Flu in Occitania: the epidemic persists, the health system under pressure”
The flu epidemic is still in full swing in Occitania, where winter respiratory viruses continue to put pressure on the regional health system. Entering its sixth epidemic week, the flu is having a strong impact on hospitals and medical practices.
An intense epidemic and alarming figures
According to the latest epidemiological bulletins, 830 people were admitted to the emergency room last week due to flu-like illnesses, including 191 requiring hospitalization. Medical and social establishments are not immune to this wave, with an increase in episodes of grouped cases. Furthermore, 6% of deaths recorded in the region are attributed to the flu, an increase compared to previous weeks.
Insufficient vaccination coverage
Despite health recommendations, vaccination coverage remains worrying. In Occitania, only 34.4% of people eligible for vaccination had received their dose at the end of November, a rate lower than expectations and that observed in previous seasons. The Regional Health Agency (ARS) is calling on residents to mobilize: the vaccination campaign continues until January 31, and there is still time to protect yourself against serious forms of the flu.
The health system under test
-To respond to this critical situation, health establishments in the region have activated internal mobilization plans in order to free up additional reception capacities. However, territorial disparities persist, accentuating tensions in certain sectors.
Barrier gestures: an essential weapon
In addition to vaccination, the authorities insist on the importance of barrier gestures. Wearing a mask, washing your hands regularly and ventilating closed spaces are all simple but effective reflexes to limit the spread of viruses. These measures remain crucial in public transport, public places, and especially in the presence of vulnerable people.
Collective vigilance necessary
While the flu epidemic is expected to last for several more weeks, citizen mobilization is essential to limit its impact. Between vaccination and barrier gestures, everyone can help slow the circulation of the virus and protect the most vulnerable populations.
To find out more about vaccination locations or good practices to adopt, go to the ARS Occitanie website or consult your pharmacist.
