Key Findings

• A According to data from the Unified Influenza Network (GROG and Sentinelles Network), the 2012–2013 influenza season lasted 13 weeks, beginning in week 51 (December 17–23, 2012) and ending in week 12 (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) at both the regional and national levels.

• According to data from SurSaUD®, the peak of influenza-related activity was reached in week 05 for the SOS Médecins Meurthe-et-Moselle association and in week 07 for the Lorraine emergency care units (SAU).

• In both primary care and emergency departments, 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, 46 clusters of cases were reported in Lorraine between October 1, 2012, and April 30, 2013. As a reminder, in 2011-2012, 41 clusters were reported. All four departments of Lorraine were affected.

• According to data available from the surveillance of influenza in long-term care facilities during the 2012–2013 season, average influenza vaccination coverage among residents and staff remains insufficient (83.8% and 25.5%, respectively).