Key Findings

• According to data from the Unified Influenza Network (GROG and Sentinelles Network), the 2012–2013 influenza season lasted 13 weeks, beginning in week 51–12 (December 17–23, 2012) and ending in week 12–13 (March 18–24, 2013).

• According to data from the Unified Influenza Network (GROG and Sentinelles Network), the epidemic peak was reached in early February (week 06-13) at both the regional and national levels.

• According to data from the SOS Médecins associations in the region, influenza was the most frequently diagnosed condition for 6 consecutive weeks (weeks 04 to 09) for the Bas-Rhin association and for 7 consecutive weeks (weeks 04 to 10) for the Haut-Rhin association.

• In community practice (SOS Médecins and the Unified Influenza Network), the impact of the influenza epidemic was greater this season than during the previous season (2011–2012), in terms of duration, the number of diagnoses per week, and incidence.

• Regarding the surveillance of acute respiratory infections (ARIs) in long-term care facilities for the elderly, 33 clusters of cases were reported in Alsace between October 1, 2012, and April 30, 2013. As a reminder, during the 2011-2012 winter season, the number of reported episodes was 26.

• According to data available from the surveillance of influenza-like illness (ILI) in long-term care facilities for the 2012-2013 season, average influenza vaccination coverage among residents and staff remains insufficient (84.6% and 14.2%, respectively).