France: Nationwide flu outbreak ongoing January 15

Event

The French health agency "Santé publique France" has warned of an ongoing influenza outbreak across the country on Wednesday, January 15. The consultation rate between January 7, and January 14, was at 85 per 100,000 people, and 135 serious cases of the virus were recorded since November 4. The Île-de-France and Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur regions are the most affected areas, where the epidemic phase has been reached. Other regions in France remain in the pre-epidemic phase as of Thursday, January 16. The flu outbreak this season is expected to spread further than previous years according to public health officials that have advised all eligible individuals to have the vaccine as soon as possible.

Further spread of the disease possible.

Context

Influenza is a contagious virus that can spread from human to human. Symptoms include high fever, aching muscles, headache, and respiratory issues. Particularly vulnerable individuals include young children, the elderly, pregnant women, the obese, and individuals suffering from chronic diseases. An annual vaccine is available.

Advice

Individuals in France, notably Île-de-France and Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur regions are advised to take preventive measures to minimize the risk of contracting or spreading communicable diseases (e.g. wash hands thoroughly and frequently, avoid contact with sick individuals, etc.) and consult a medical professional regarding influenza vaccination options.