According to the latest CoviPrev general population survey published by Santé publique France and conducted in September 2023, the general public’s intention to adopt preventive measures to protect against COVID-19 remains stable compared to last year (60%). In contrast, only 25% and 22% of respondents say they are willing to adopt these measures in the event of a flu epidemic or a winter illness. Regarding masks in particular, only 15% of French people report wearing one in the presence of vulnerable individuals, 14% on public transportation, and only one in two indicated they intend to wear one if symptoms appear, despite the recommendations still being in effect.

Furthermore, the estimated COVID-19 vaccination coverage among those aged 65 and older is currently only 27.4%. These insufficient figures show that, despite the rise in indicators of acute respiratory infections across the country (published weekly on our website), a significant proportion of the French population has not adopted preventive measures, even though they are effective in combating winter viruses. With holiday gatherings and the coming winter months ahead, everyone must continue to follow preventive measures to limit the spread of winter illnesses such as the flu, COVID-19, and bronchiolitis. It is also essential that at-risk individuals protect themselves by getting vaccinated against seasonal flu and COVID-19.

What are the preventive measures, and when should you take them?

• Wear a mask as soon as symptoms appear (cough, cold, fever, sore throat) in crowded places (e.g., public transportation) and around vulnerable people, even if you have no symptoms;

• Wash your hands frequently with soap and water or with an alcohol-based hand sanitizer;

• Ventilate your home regularly;

• Sneeze into your elbow (rather than into your hands);

• Use a disposable tissue.

Getting vaccinated against the flu and COVID-19: dual vaccination to protect yourself and reduce the risk of infection

Last winter, vaccination coverage among vulnerable populations—such as pregnant women, people aged 65 and older, and those with chronic conditions—was 51.5%, compared to 52.6% in the winter of 2021–2022. Furthermore, outbreaks of the flu, COVID-19, and bronchiolitis occurred simultaneously for several weeks, resulting in a triple epidemic with a significant impact on healthcare capacity.

This is why dual vaccination against influenza and COVID-19 is recommended to limit the risks of infection and complications among the most vulnerable individuals. Co-vaccination allows individuals to receive both vaccines at the same time, at two different injection sites, such as both arms, for example. The 2023–2024 vaccination campaign began on October 17, 2023, in mainland France.

• More information on COVID-19 vaccination

• More information on seasonal flu vaccination