Flu Epidemic Declines in France, But Remains Active
The flu epidemic is waning across France, with several regions now reporting a decrease in cases. However, health officials emphasize that the virus continues to circulate, and vigilance remains important.
According to recent data from Santé publique France, the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, along with Île-de-France, are among the first areas to move out of the epidemic phase. This signifies a positive trend as the country progresses through the respiratory illness season. The epidemic in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes lasted for nine weeks.
The decline is evident across all age groups, both in outpatient and hospital settings. SOS Médecins reported a 25% decrease in flu-related consultations, accounting for 10.7% of their activity. The incidence rate of cases seen in general practice has also decreased from 263 cases per 100,000 inhabitants in week 5 to 216 cases per 100,000 in week 6. Le Progrès reports.
Hospital data mirrors this improvement, with a 30% reduction in emergency room visits across all age groups and fewer hospitalizations following emergency care. Santé publique France notes that the intensity level associated with flu-like syndromes is now considered “low.”
Nationally, as of February 11, 2026, most regions of France remain in an epidemic state, with the exception of Mayotte, Île-de-France, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes (which transitioned to a post-epidemic phase in weeks 3, 5, and 6, respectively), and La Réunion, which is at a baseline level. Santé publique France provides detailed information on the national situation.
While the flu epidemic is easing, the virus remains active, and the overall incidence of acute respiratory infections is still being monitored. The Sentinelles network reports an incidence rate of 322 cases of acute respiratory infection per 100,000 inhabitants as of the week ending February 13, 2026, a decrease from the previous week. Sentiweb.fr provides ongoing surveillance data.
The current data underscores the importance of continued monitoring and preventative measures to protect public health as respiratory viruses continue to evolve and circulate.
