All regions have entered the epidemic phase

The last metropolitan regions entered the epidemic phase during the week of December 26, 2016, through January 1, 2017. This epidemic is primarily caused by the A(H3N2) virus. It is characterized by numerous hospitalizations of people aged 65 and older following visits to the emergency room (51%). Flu activity is particularly high in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region.

Older adults particularly affected by the disease

This outbreak serves as a reminder that the flu is not always a mild illness, particularly for people aged 65 and older. It is important for them to protect themselves against the flu and to contact their doctor promptly if symptoms develop so that antiviral treatment can be started if necessary.

Regional alert level in week 52

In the overseas departments, the flu epidemic is affecting Martinique, French Guiana, and Guadeloupe.

Santé publique France analyzes data from its network of partners on a weekly basis, both at the national and regional levels. Epidemiological analysis, together with virological data, helps classify regions and mainland France into three levels: no flu epidemic, the pre- (or post-) epidemic phase, and the epidemic phase.

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.