We had almost forgotten her. Throughout the winter, the flu was rather discreet. But, lately, the epidemic has spread in many regions of France. Public Health France even warns of a “sharp increase in all flu indicators”. With the exception of Corsica, the entire metropolitan territory is affected by the flu. In fifteen days, the incidence rate of flu consultations has even doubledthus falling from 88 per 100,000 inhabitants to 148 from March 7 to 13.
–
This year, the rise in cases comes late in the season. To explain this phenomenon, Public Health France highlights “the current reduction in measures to control the Covid-19 pandemic”. Since Monday March 14, wearing a mask is no longer compulsory in closed places and businesses. However, it remains compulsory in public transport, health establishments and nursing homes. This relaxation of barrier gestures accelerated the circulation of the flu virus throughout the country. Indeed, to fight against the flu epidemic, it is recommended to keep barrier gestures as much as possible.
–
More fragile immunities
For Public Health, this epidemic rebound is also linked to the Back to School : “This intensification of the circulation of influenza viruses occurs late in the winter season, probably favored by the end of the winter school holidays in all regions”. This year, the French are collectively less immune to the flu. In effect, organisms have a more fragile immune system in the face of this virus which he has encountered little. Asked by The Parisianthe virologist and member of the Scientific Council Bruno Lima also specifies that, as the vaccination against influenza was carried out several months ago, the effectiveness is not optimal.
—
