A health situation that remains extremely precarious. The winter flu epidemic, which usually lasts ten to twelve weeks, intensified in early January and causes hospitalizations at an “exceptionally high” level compared to previous seasons, noted Public Health France (SpF) in its latest bulletin on acute respiratory infections.
This Tuesday, January 14, on BFMTV, Yannick Neuder, new minister responsible for Health and Access to Health Care, indicated that the evolution of the epidemic is “very heterogeneous” depending on the regions, but that “we are heading towards a global peak.” in ten days”, on a national scale.
In addition, the minister also confirmed the number of 87 hospitals in the national territory that have activated their white plan, a system that allows certain operations to be deprogrammed or staff withdrawn from sick leave.
Relaxation of barrier gestures and vaccination.
Asked about the causes of the virulence of the flu epidemic this season, Yannick Neuder pointed out several factors, including the “relaxation of barrier gestures.” “During the Covid period we did not have gastroenteritis or the flu because we washed our hands, coughed into our elbow, put on a mask, I think overall it was relieved,” he says.
And the minister continues: “We have a vaccination issue, 80% of the patients in intensive care are patients who were not vaccinated. We remember that vaccination at least prevents serious forms,” he insists.
The number of flu-related deaths has increased, mainly among people over 65 years of age. To protect us against this, the authorities regularly remind us that vaccination remains the most effective means, especially against severe forms of flu and Covid-19.
It is recommended for people aged 65 years and over, immunocompromised people, infants over six months with comorbidities, pregnant women and residents in medical-social facilities.
“Vaccination for 2026 will be organized in a few weeks, it is in February or March when we must make arrangements. We must vaccinate caregivers and patients more and we will have to consider the question” of the vaccination obligation, concludes the minister.
Source: BFM TV
