There have been numerous cases of flu in France in recent months. Is your department affected by this epidemic?
It’s winter ! At this time of year, seasonal illnesses spread quickly and evolve differently depending on each person’s state of health. Today there are many cases of flu in France. Some departments are on red alert. Santé Publique France indicates that the epidemic is intensifying in France and overseas, particularly in Guyana, Guadeloupe and Martinique. Between January 22 and 28, “all indicators were up sharply in community medicine and hospitals in all age groups”. Is your department affected by this wave of flu cases?
Departments affected by the flu epidemic
The Haut-Rhin
Public health France, in its bulletin weekly, reveals a sharp increase in cases of flu in the country. Currently, the departments which were still spared from this disease have joined the list of contaminated areas and have moved to the highest alert level for an epidemic. The Alsace region, more precisely the Haut-Rhin department, is considered one of the centers of influenza contamination in France. In fact, out of 100,000 visits to the emergency room, there are 420 patients suffering from the flu.
The Vosges
The health agency, in its report, notes a strong circulation of the influenza virus between January 15 and 21, 2024 in the Vosges. According to health specialists, it is not Covid-19, but a sub-variant who makesenormous devastation In France. This situation is extremely worrying because it increases medical activity and brings back to the fore the thorny problem of lack of personnel in hospitals and health facilities. Regarding the Vosges department, located in Lorraine, there are 349 patients per 100,000 emergency room visits.
Jura
In Franche-Comté, the Jura department records 375 cases of contamination per 100,000 passages. The report shows 7,546 people went to the emergency room compared to 4,669 in previous weeks. According to these figures, the hospitalization rate for this flu epidemic now corresponds to 2% compared to 1.3% a few weeks earlier. It affects all age groups, even the youngest, note Planet.fr.
Means of prevention against the flu
The extended vaccination campaign
Health authorities recommend the flu vaccine, especially for vulnerable people likely to develop a critical form of the disease. Indeed, pregnant women, seniors aged 65 and over, obese people, those close to a newborn, not forgetting medical personnel are the most exposed. For them, the flu vaccine is fully covered by Health Insurance and represents the best way to protect themselves.
A study showed that in France, on average 2,000 lives are protected each year thanks to prevention. The vaccine against the flu is available in pharmacies subject to presentation of a voucher. It can be administered by a doctor, midwife, nurse or pharmacist. In addition, the flu vaccination campaign is extended until February 29.
Barrier gestures
The flu is a viral, respiratory and contagious infection. It most often intensifies in winter. Wearing a mask remains a recommended action during a flu epidemic, especially in the presence of vulnerable people. Other reflexes, such as washing your hands regularly with drinking water and soap or using a hydroalcoholic solution, also remain very practical in the fight against the flu. Ventilate your home more oftensneezing into your elbow rather than your hands and using a single-use tissue remain good reflexes to protect against winter viruses. However, the French have difficulty respecting these very effective instructions.
Symptoms
According to the World Health Organization, influenza is responsible for 250,000 to 500,000 deaths per year worldwide. In addition, the disease affects everyone, but it progresses differently depending on the state of health of the patient. If you suffer from a high fever with a temperature between 39°C and 40°C, it is likely that you have a flu-like illness.
You may also experience body aches, joint pain, headaches, fatigue and a dry cough. In some people, these symptoms are often severe and are accompanied by bronchitis, conjunctivitis and respiratory problems. Many health campaigns recommend vaccination every year to prevent disease.
