Flu and Covid-19 Vaccination Campaign Launches In France, aisnenouvelle.fr reports
France’s annual vaccination campaign against seasonal influenza and Covid-19 officially begins on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, targeting vulnerable populations ahead of the winter months, aisnenouvelle.fr reported.
The coordinated public health initiative aims to mitigate severe disease, hospitalizations, and mortality associated with both viral pathogens. During the winter 2025 season, only 56.7 percent of individuals aged 65 and older received the influenza vaccine, while overall coverage among at-risk populations stalled at 49.6 percent, according to figures cited by aisnenouvelle.fr.
Targeted Demographics for Autumn Immunization
Targeted populations for the influenza immunization include adults aged 65 and older, pregnant women regardless of gestational trimester, individuals with specific chronic pathologies including children from six months of age, and patients with severe obesity defined by a body mass index of 40 kg/m² or higher. The recommendation also extends to residents in long-term care facilities and medical-social housing, healthcare professionals, individuals in regular contact with immunocompromised patients, and home-care workers supporting vulnerable populations.
Vaccination is strongly urged for individuals aged 80 and older, immunocompromised patients, and residents of nursing homes and long-term care units, though the Covid-19 vaccine remains accessible and reimbursable for any individual seeking immunization.
National Supply and Vaccine Formulations
The national supply includes 15 million anti-influenza doses distributed among general practitioners, community pharmacies, nurses, and midwives. For Covid-19, the authorized vaccine formulation is Comirnaty XFG, available in adult presentations for individuals aged 12 and older and pediatric doses for children between six months and 11 years.
Health Professionals Can Administer Both Vaccines in One Visit
Both the influenza and Covid-19 vaccines can be administered during a single medical visit, injected into two separate anatomical sites such as opposing arms, according to the Ministry of Health.
Administration can be performed by doctors, nurses, pharmacists, or midwives.
Officials Target 75 Percent Coverage for Seniors
Public health officials set a target vaccination coverage of 75 percent for individuals aged 65 and older, following lower uptake during the previous winter season.
Eligible individuals can obtain their influenza vaccine free of charge at community pharmacies using their health insurance card and an official prescription voucher. Those outside the priority groups may purchase the vaccine directly at a pharmacy without a medical prescription, though costs for the product and injection remain the responsibility of the patient.
Public Health Measures and Campaign Timeline
Public health authorities emphasize that the prevention of seasonal influenza relies concurrently on vaccination and barrier measures, including hand hygiene, mask-wearing, and the isolation of symptomatic individuals. The vaccination campaign runs through the end of January 2027.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational and scientific communication purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical condition, diagnosis, or treatment plan.