France remains in the grip of a widespread seasonal flu epidemic, with hospitals under sustained strain even as early indicators suggest the peak may now have passed.
Flu is at epidemic level in all regions of mainland France, with hospital visits at high levels - particularly among older people - according to the latest weekly bulletin from state health authority Santé publique France (SPF), published on January 7.
However, officials caution that this assessment remains provisional, and that a renewed surge in January cannot be ruled out.
Where is flu most prevalent?
During the week ending January 4, 2026, all regions of mainland France were classed as being in an epidemic phase.
Hospital data show that flu and flu-like illness account for a growing share of admissions following emergency-department visits, reaching what health authorities describe as a “high-intensity” level.
The situation is most acute among those aged 65 and over, for whom activity remains very high in both primary care and hospital settings.
By contrast, consultations with GPs and emergency departments have stabilised or begun to fall in several regions and age groups, suggesting that transmission in the wider population may be starting to slow.
Deaths and hospital pressure
Despite these stabilising signals, severe outcomes continue to rise.
Flu accounted for 6.3% of deaths in early January, a level comparable with the same period last year.
The 2024–2025 flu season saw more than 17,000 deaths recorded.
Will the epidemic end soon?
According to forecasts by SPF, flu activity is expected to continue declining over the next four weeks in most regions, although it is likely to remain at a moderate level.
Experts stress, however, that continued circulation of influenza viruses means a January rebound remains possible.
Two strains, A(H1N1)pdm09 and A(H3N2), are both circulating across France.
Uptake has improved slightly compared with last winter, but coverage remains low. By the end of November 2025, 38% of people considered at risk had been vaccinated, rising to 44% among those aged over 65.
Early estimates suggest the vaccine’s effectiveness (lower risk of catching / needing treatment etc) of some 37% across all age ranges.
Officials continue to recommend use of basic preventive measures, including handwashing, good ventilation and mask-wearing when symptomatic.
