France: High levels of influenza in children

The ‘Bulletin of Santé Publique France on Acute Respiratory Infections’ reported a significant escalation of the influenza epidemic in the country, with a notable predominance among the paediatric population. Approximately 10% of hospital admissions among children aged four and over are attributable to influenza. Of particular concern is the admission of 40 children under the age of two to intensive care units. A general increase in infections has been recorded in hospital settings, including in the adult population. The demographic of the patients in question is such that the age group of 65 years and over accounts for 58% of hospital admissions. Specifically, 383 adults aged between 18 and 64 years and 428 individuals over 65 years of age were hospitalised. According to Santé Publique France, among the 7,733 deaths reported, influenza was cited as a direct or contributing cause in 7.1% of cases. Although vaccination remains the most effective method of protection against influenza, vaccination coverage as of 31 December 2024 has been estimated at 49.8% among individuals aged 65 years and over, and 22.7% among those considered at risk of severe influenza and below 65 years of age. However, preliminary data suggest a decline in the efficacy of the influenza vaccine in subjects over 65, with an estimated effectiveness of approximately 35%.