Introduction - This article compares the demographic and medical characteristics of influenza-related deaths during the 2009–2010 influenza A(H1N1) pandemic with those of seasonal influenza-related deaths since 2000, as recorded in death certificates in France. Methods - Various parameters regarding the age and sex distribution of deaths were determined for the 2009–2010 influenza pandemic and for all previous influenza seasons since 2000. The average number of diagnoses listed on death certificates and the frequency of conditions reported concurrently with influenza were examined. Deaths with mentions of "influenza A" and "unspecified influenza" were distinguished in 2009–2010. Results—349 influenza-related deaths were recorded during the pandemic. The average age at death was 59.4 years in 2009–2010 versus 81.7 years in previous years. The number of diagnoses reported on death certificates was higher in 2009–2010. The specific conditions studied appeared with similar frequency on death certificates across the different years. Conclusion - The demographic characteristics of influenza-related deaths in 2009–2010 are atypical compared to previous years. The affected population is much younger. The comorbidities of the deceased, however, are similar. (R.A.)