The influenza epidemic, particularly virulent this season in France, continues to decrease speed. In a weekly newsletter published this Wednesday, February 26, Public Health indicates that during the previous week, from February 17 to 23, the influenza indicators recorded a clear decrease.
This fall is remarkably remarkable in children. However, the activity remains sustained and all regions remain in the epidemic phase, except the Isla Meeting.
A strong epidemic
The epidemic has been particularly virulent since the beginning of winter, with significant mortality in the elderly and an exceptionally high number of hospitalized children. This situation is linked to several factors: three strains of the virus circulate simultaneously and the vaccine has proven to be ineffective, especially among those over 65 where its effectiveness is now estimated at 26%.
However, the epidemic has lost intensity since the beginning of February, a situation that was confirmed with the figures last week.
According to the public Santé France, “in the city, the indicators decreased and the flu has passed this week to a low level in all age groups.” On the other hand, “in the hospital, the proportion of hospitalizations for flu/influenza syndrome between hospitalizations all causes remained at a moderate intensity level in all age groups.”
The proportion of deaths with an influenza mention is decreasing, but remains high compared to previous epidemics. Among the deaths related to this disease declared between February 17 and 23, 91% referred to people 65 years of age or older.
The importance of barriers
The three A (H1N1, A (H3N2) and B/Victoria Cocirculation and since the end of January, the proportion of B viruses has increased.
The flu vaccination campaign began on October 15, 2024 in France and extended until February 28, 2025. Those over 65 are directed in particular, as well as people with comorbidities or immunocompromised. They also care about pregnant women, residents in health centers or health professionals and all people living around them.
In addition, as to avoid the spread of the COVID-19 virus, barriers gestures remain “essential to protect themselves from all winter diseases,” recalls Public Health France.
Source: BFM TV
