Flu and bronchiolitis cases are increasing during the holiday season, with Public Health France reporting a rise in flu activity and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) prevalence, particularly threatening infants. To mitigate viral transmission, Professor Antoine Flahault recommends improving indoor ventilation, wearing masks in uncertain air quality, and staying updated with vaccinations, including flu and Covid-19 shots. Despite slow vaccination uptake, there is still time to gain protection before holiday gatherings.
Flu and Bronchiolitis Cases on the Rise This Holiday Season
As the festive season draws near, health indicators are showing alarming trends. According to the latest report from Public Health France, there has been a notable surge in flu cases across the nation. The agency highlights a “significant rise in flu activity in urban areas and hospitals,” affecting all age demographics. Currently, four regions—Île-de-France, Hauts-de-France, Normandy, and Bourgogne-Franche-Comté—are experiencing epidemic conditions, while eight more are classified as pre-epidemic.
Additionally, the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), which poses a serious threat to infants under two, is becoming increasingly prevalent. Public Health France has reported that “the majority of indicators are on the rise,” indicating a nationwide epidemic, with Corsica being the only exception. This uptick in viral infections is concerning, especially with families planning gatherings for the holiday celebrations.
Three Essential Tips to Prevent Contamination
To combat this health crisis, Professor Antoine Flahault, director of the Global Health Institute in Geneva, offers three invaluable recommendations for minimizing the risk of viral transmission during the festive period.
1. Ensure Proper Ventilation in Indoor Areas
The first step is to improve ventilation in your living and gathering spaces. A well-ventilated area significantly reduces the likelihood of airborne viruses lingering. Professor Flahault stresses the importance of ventilating public spaces, particularly those where individuals spend extended periods, such as public transport. To gauge ventilation quality, he suggests using a CO2 sensor. If readings fall below 800 ppm (parts per million), the air quality is deemed satisfactory.
2. Wear a Mask if Unsure
In situations where air quality is uncertain, wearing a mask can provide an extra layer of protection. “If CO2 levels exceed 800 ppm, or if you are unsure about the indoor air quality, consider using an FFP2 mask,” Professor Flahault recommends. This type of mask is highly effective in preventing the spread of respiratory viruses. Furthermore, anyone exhibiting symptoms should wear a mask—not just for their own protection but to help curb the spread of illness to others.
3. Stay Up-to-Date with Vaccinations
Lastly, staying current with vaccinations is crucial. “It is vital to ensure that you are vaccinated against both the flu and Covid-19, as well as receiving preventive antibodies for RSV in infants,” advises Professor Flahault. Despite a slow uptake in flu vaccinations since the campaign began in mid-October, it’s not too late to get vaccinated before the celebrations commence. The flu vaccine typically takes a few days to become effective, but with seasonal flu epidemics lasting anywhere from eight to twelve weeks, there’s ample time to achieve some level of protection. While the vaccine does not guarantee complete immunity (its effectiveness ranges from 40% to 70% depending on circulating strains), it significantly lowers the risk of severe complications from the flu.