All regions in mainland France remain in the epidemic phase

Since the start of the epidemic, 1.8 million people have sought medical care for flu-like symptoms. The peak in outpatient visits was reached in week 3, and flu activity is declining in all metropolitan regions. This epidemic, caused by the A(H3N2) virus (99%), is particularly severe among the elderly. However, since the beginning of the year, the number of outpatient and inpatient visits has been declining sharply among people aged 65 and older, as has the weekly number of outbreaks of acute respiratory infections in senior care facilities. Particular vigilance must be maintained in these facilities.

Since November 1, 2016, 1,190 severe cases of influenza have been reported to Santé publique France.

In the overseas departments, the epidemic is on the decline in Martinique and appears to be resurging in Guadeloupe. In French Guiana, the epidemic continues in outpatient settings and remains low in hospitals.

Excess mortality from all causes among the elderly

An increase in all-cause mortality has been observed nationwide since mid-December 2016. This increase affects almost exclusively people aged 65 and older. Since the start of the epidemic, the number of excess deaths from all causes is estimated at 14,300, although the proportion attributable to influenza cannot currently be estimated.

Consultation rates for flu-like illness - Week 5

Santé publique France analyzes data from its network of partners on a weekly basis, at both the national and regional levels.

Simple steps to protect yourself from the flu

Simple hygiene measures (limiting contact, washing hands regularly, covering your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, using disposable tissues) help limit the transmission of this disease, which spreads very quickly from person to person. However, vaccination remains the best means of prevention to protect against the flu, limit complications, and reduce the risk of hospitalization. It takes 15 days after the injection for the vaccine to provide protection, and those who have not been vaccinated before the outbreak run the risk of becoming infected before they are protected.

Early antiviral treatment is recommended for at-risk individuals at the first signs of the flu or after they have had close contact with a flu case.