Flu-related indicators on the rise

The rate of medical visits* for flu-like illness has risen sharply (66%) since late December, driven primarily by children under 5 but also increasing among those aged 5–14 and 15–64.

The proportion of hospitalizations for influenza or influenza-like illness among all hospitalizations has also increased by 15% compared to the last week of December. The proportion of children under 15 in these indicators remains high but is decreasing in favor of adults, particularly those aged 65 and older.

Since October 4, 2021, 53 severe cases of influenza have been reported, 25 of which involved children under 15 (49%), a higher proportion than in previous seasons.

Vaccination and adherence to preventive measures remain the best ways to protect against the flu

Since the start of the vaccination campaign, nearly 12 million people have been vaccinated against the flu. The flu vaccination campaign has been extended until February 28, 2022.

Vaccination is recommended for at-risk individuals and healthcare professionals, and is the best way to protect against the flu and its complications.

Furthermore, it is entirely possible to administer the COVID-19 and seasonal flu vaccines simultaneously. In this case, the vaccines are administered at two different injection sites (for example, one injection in each shoulder). To effectively combat the transmission of all viruses, including the flu and COVID-19, it is necessary to get vaccinated and continue to follow preventive measures.