French health officials have extended COVID-19 and influenza vaccination campaigns through February 28th, responding to sustained winter virus circulation and a recent surge in flu cases, particularly among children. The extension aims to maximize vaccine coverage as both influenza and COVID-19 continue to pose public health risks.Last season, influenza contributed to 17,600 deaths in France, highlighting the potential severity of these respiratory illnesses.
Health officials have extended vaccination campaigns against both influenza and COVID-19 through February 28, citing continued high levels of winter virus circulation. This extension aims to provide additional opportunities for individuals to protect themselves as respiratory illnesses remain prevalent.
It’s not too late to get vaccinated against the flu or COVID-19. The extension of vaccination campaigns for both viruses, until February 28, was announced Tuesday in response to ongoing high levels of winter epidemic activity.
Increase in Flu Cases Among Children
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The decision to extend the campaigns comes as a result of “continued significant circulation of influenza viruses” at the beginning of 2026, according to the Directorate-General of Health. “As of mid-January, influenza remained at an epidemic level in all regions of France, with the exception of Mayotte and Réunion,” noted Public Health France. While flu-related healthcare visits are “generally stable or decreasing among adults,” Public Health France reports an increase in cases among children“since the start of the January school year.” The Directorate-General of Health warns that this resurgence of viral circulation among young people “could, in the coming weeks, lead to an increase in consultations and hospitalizations among adults.”
Over 17,000 Flu Deaths Last Season
As of December 31, 2025, influenza vaccination coverage reached 46.3% among all targeted individuals, and 53.3% among those aged 65 and older. Last year, seasonal influenza caused 17,600 deaths in France, compared to an average of around 10,000.
