Flu epidemic in France is strong, but not exceptional, numbers show
Data collected by the Santé publique France (SPF), France’s national public health agency, from doctors’ offices, SOS Médecins and emergency services, shows an explosion in the number of people …winter flu epidemic hits eight more regions in France: Latest Updates
Winter flu has reached epidemic level in eight more regions according to data released by the French public health authority, with only Corsica remaining at pre-epidemic level. The epidemic affects all age groups, says the weekly report by Santé publique France published on December 18, with symptoms of low to medium intensity.
Public health and economic benefits of seasonal influenza vaccination
Background Seasonal influenza epidemics have a substantial public health and economic burden, which can be alleviated through vaccination.The World Health Association (WHO) recommends a 75% vaccination coverage rate (VCR) in: older adults (aged ≥ 65 years), individuals with chronic conditions, pregnant women, children aged 6-24 months and healthcare workers. Though, no European country …
Epidemiological indicators of last week collected by Public Health France with the cabinets of general practitioners as at the hospital are decreasing after a peak in the contamination recorded in late January.Though, these indicators are still considerably higher than those noted during the epidemic peaks of the two previous flu seasons.
Now is not the time to forget our good protective reflexes, especially at school holidays that promote family and friendly exchanges.
Last week in Occitania, more than 1000 people went to the emergency room for a flu. Among these patients spent in the emergency room, 189 were hospitalized: these indicators linked to the most serious cases gradually decrease but they are still very high in our region as everywhere in France.
at school holidays, it is indeed essential to maintain increased vigilance to limit the spread of the virus.The rigorous submission of barriers (wearing the mask, hand washing, ventilation of spaces) remains essential to protect our most fragile loved ones and reduce the risk of severe forms and hospitalizations.
Interview: Public health Authority on Influenza Update
Editor: The French public health authority, Santé publique France, has recently issued a report indicating that most regions are now at intermediate or low levels of the flu epidemic, except for Corsica. Can you briefly summarize the current status of the flu epidemic in france?
Guest: Yes, according to the latest report by Santé publique France, the flu epidemic is currently affecting all age groups but with varying intensities from low to medium. While the rates have shown some decrease after peaking in late January, the indicators are still substantially higher than those seen in the past two flu seasons. this highlights the importance of continuing to follow protective measures, especially during the upcoming school holidays and gatherings.
Editor: What specific measures are being emphasized during this period of heightened flu activity and school holidays?
Guest: During the school holidays, it’s crucial to maintain high levels of vigilance to limit the spread of the virus. This includes adhering to basic protective measures such as wearing masks, frequent handwashing, and ensuring good ventilation of indoor spaces. These practices are essential for protecting the most vulnerable members of our society and reducing the risk of severe symptoms and hospitalizations.
Editor: Can you give us specific data on the flu situation in Occitania?
Guest: Last week in Occitania, over 1,000 individuals visited the emergency room due to the flu. Among these cases, 189 resulted in hospital admissions. Although these indicators linked to more severe cases have shown a gradual decrease, they remain very high compared to previous seasons.
Editor: What are your final recommendations for the public to help mitigate the spread of the flu during this holiday period?
guest: Our main proposal is to continue practicing good hygienic measures rigorously. this includes wearing masks in public settings,practicing frequent hand hygiene,and ensuring proper ventilation in indoor spaces. These actions are critical to sensation the spread of the virus,especially during periods of social gatherings and interactions.
