Covid-19: France said to be ‘global star’ for pandemic economics

The Covid-19 pandemic had a profound impact in France, as in many countries. Its response to the pandemic was praised in some quarters for its effectiveness. However, it was also controversial, in particular with regard to its decision to impose a ‘vaccination pass’ for many everyday activities.

France’s approach was notably praised by Nobel-winning American economist Paul Krugman, who said it was arguably the global star in limiting economic damage due to the pandemic. 

He pointed to factors such as subsidies to keep furloughed workers on the payroll and “universal” childcare. He also said France did better than the US at getting people vaccinated.

Monitoring continues

Several years on from the height of the pandemic, Covid has largely gone from people’s daily concerns, but has not disappeared completely. Rates of infection are still monitored by the authorities, and public body Santé publique France continues to publish regular updates.

As of January 2025, however, it said the situation was stable with low levels of the disease. As predicted, there was no spike seen despite more people getting together over the holidays. The latest weekly Covid incidence rate among patients seen by general practitioners for an acute episode of respiratory illness was nine per 100,000 residents.

Vaccinations

The government continues to launch an annual vaccination campaign, aimed at those most vulnerable to severe forms of Covid.

In 2024-2025 it was recommended to anyone aged 65 or over, so as to maintain their immunity, as well as:

1) Infants aged 6 months and over, children, adolescents and adults with pre-existing health conditions that increase the risk of a severe form of the disease (complex high blood pressure, heart, vascular, liver, kidney or lung problems; diabetes, obesity, cancer, transplant patients, people with Down’s syndrome, psychiatric disorders or dementia)

2) Immunocompromised people

3) Pregnant women

4) Residents of care homes and long-term care units

5) People living with or in regular contact with immunocompromised or vulnerable individuals, including professionals in the health and social care sectors.

The Haute Autorité de Santé has also recommended vaccination for:

1) Students and professionals in the health sector (working in institutions or self-employed)

2) Students and professionals in the emergency and fire services (particularly professional and volunteer firefighters)

3) Professionals in regular contact with immunocompromised or otherwise vulnerable people.

Note that even if you do not fall into one of these groups and want to be vaccinated, you may do so. It is free of charge to anyone in the French health system. It does not require a prescription.

Where can I get vaccinated?

Options for this include GPs, pharmacies and nurses. Another way is to visit doctolib.fr and search with ‘Vaccination Covid-19’ to find available appointments near you.

How to get tested

Covid tests can be done at participating pharmacies or at medical test centres. You can check availability. You do not need a prescription and the test is reimbursed by the state or the state plus top-up insurance. You only need to have a test if you have possible symptoms of the illness.

What if I test positive?

There are no formal obligations now, but you should avoid vulnerable people, tell your friends and family, and contact your doctor.

It is also requested that you should practice the usual ‘barrier gestures’ such as wearing a mask in public spaces, washing your hands regularly (or using antiviral/bacterial hand gel), only coughing into a disposable handkerchief etc. 

You should also avoid shaking people’s hands or kissing them on the cheek. Try to keep your rooms well aired. You can see your doctor either in person or over webcam, if they offer this.

There is no obligation to quarantine yourself, however, do monitor your symptoms, including taking your temperature, and speak to your doctor or call 15 if the situation gets worse (in particular, immediately call 15 if you develop difficulty with breathing).

If you are an adult and are at risk of developing serious illness, your doctor may prescribe an antiviral that reduces the risk of being hospitalised, called Paxlovid. It is taken orally, and it is available in pharmacies.

Usually, most people recover in two to three weeks, with rest. If you are unable to work due to Covid, your doctor can prescribe an arrêt maladie (sick leave).