The flu outbreak is spreading across mainland France

In week 51 (December 18–24, 2017), the flu epidemic was present in all regions of mainland France, except Corsica.

During this period, 6,213 emergency room visits for flu-like illness were reported, and 15% of SOS Médecins consultations were for flu-like illness. In hospitals, visits for flu-like illness particularly affected those under 15 years of age (56%). Hospitalizations for influenza mainly affect the elderly (14% are aged 65–74 and 33% are 75 or older) as well as children under 5 years of age (22%). Since the start of surveillance, 79% of the influenza viruses detected have been type A.

Preventive measures to protect yourself and limit the spread of the flu

While vaccination remains the best protection, there are simple steps that help limit person-to-person transmission of the disease, such as:

• washing your hands frequently with soap and water or with a hand sanitizer,

• limiting contact with sick people,

• airing out your home every day to refresh the air,

• wearing a mask if you have flu-like symptoms.

Prevention resources available to encourage the adoption of "barrier measures"

Santé publique France has produced an audio press kit titled "Stop Winter Viruses: The Prevention Minute." A valuable prevention resource, this tool includes a public service announcement encouraging the adoption of "barrier measures" and 10 informational segments in the form of expert interviews, designed to raise awareness about the most common seasonal infections in winter (flu, gastroenteritis, bronchiolitis, etc.) and the preventive measures to take to protect oneself. It is intended for local radio stations for free broadcast and can also be shared via a website or in a lobby.

For more information:

http://solidarites-sante.gouv.fr/prevention-en-sante/preserver-sa-sante/pour-un-hiver-sans-virus/ne-laissons-pas-les-microbes-nous-gacher-l-hiver