Flu adn Respiratory Viruses Surge Across france, Straining Healthcare System
Paris, France – A sharp increase in influenza-like illnesses and the simultaneous circulation of other respiratory viruses, including bronchiolitis and COVID-19, are putting pressure on healthcare facilities across France. Public Health France reports a notable rise in consultations and emergency room visits linked to these illnesses,prompting renewed calls for vaccination and preventative measures.
Regional Hotspots & Rising Numbers
The rate of consultations for influenza-like illness has climbed to 91 per 100,000 inhabitants, up from 59 the previous week. Emergency rooms are also seeing a surge, with 1,551 passages recorded for flu-like symptoms, representing 0.5% of total visits – an increase from 0.3% a week earlier.
Several departments are experiencing particularly dramatic increases. In Haute-Saône,emergency room visits related to the flu have jumped by +850%. Loiret and Pyrénées-Orientales are reporting progressions exceeding 300%. Within Île-de-France, Seine-et-Marne, Yonne, and Loiret have surpassed a 1% threshold of emergency room visits attributable to the flu.
Symptoms & Concurrent Viruses
While influenza is a primary concern, the situation is intricate by the widespread presence of other respiratory viruses. Bronchiolitis, which mainly affects infants, has spread to 12 of 13 metropolitan areas, with indicators showing levels close to those observed during the same period last season.
COVID-19 circulation remains contained but is showing a “slight upward trend,” particularly in the Grand Est region and Mayotte. Authorities emphasize the delicate situation this confluence of viruses creates for healthcare structures, especially pediatric departments and emergency services.
Vaccination & Prevention Efforts
France’s flu vaccination campaign, alongside the COVID-19 campaign, launched on October 14th. The campaigns target individuals aged 65 and over, those at risk of serious illness, pregnant women, nursing home residents, and healthcare professionals. As of November 14th, approximately 8 million doses had been delivered – a 21% increase compared to the same period last year.
Public health officials continue to advocate for preventative measures, including regular hand washing, room ventilation, and mask-wearing when symptomatic or around vulnerable individuals. These barrier gestures remain crucial in curbing the spread of respiratory viruses.
