Flu: French health authorities extend vaccination campaign as cases soar

The winter flu vaccination campaign in France is set to be extended to the end of February as cases remain high. 

Usually only available until the end of January, it will be possible to be jabbed until February 28, the health ministry announced. The extension of the campaign also includes Covid-19 vaccinations. 

Health authorities are urging people belonging to vulnerable groups (such as those aged 65 and over, immunocompromised or pregnant) to be vaccinated as soon as possible to reduce the risk of infection.

Vaccinations will continue to be available at pharmacies up to this time, and pharmacies running low on vaccines will be given top-up supplies. 

People belonging to vulnerable groups receive a voucher allowing them to obtain a vaccination for free. Those belonging to vulnerable groups that did not receive a voucher can visit a doctor to be prescribed one. 

All other people can be vaccinated if they wish, although they must pay for the vaccine (between €6 and €10). 

Read more: Covid and flu vaccination campaign in France - who is invited?

Elsewhere, people who have symptoms of a winter illness such as flu or Covid-19 are asked to wear face masks when in busy public areas or coming into contact with vulnerable people, and those who work or live with a vulnerable person are being asked to take protective measures when outside even if they do not have any symptoms.

Hospitalisations remain high 

A “markedly severe” flu epidemic remains in France, the Health Ministry stated, which is particularly affecting the elderly. 

Over 65% of hospitalisation admissions following a visit to the emergency department due to the illness are attributed to people aged 65 and above. 

Despite elderly people being the most affected, cases in people of all ages are rising as three forms of the virus – each affecting people across age groups differently – are spreading concurrently. 

At the same time, Covid-19 is continuing to circulate, increasing the risk of co-infection that is particularly dangerous for vulnerable groups. 

Ministers announced last week that flu cases were set to increase in the final two weeks of January. 

Read more: Minister issues warning as flu cases set to peak in France

However, hospitalisations between January 13 and 19 were slightly down, according to data from the health authorities.