The 2025-2026 flu season in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes lasted approximately 9 weeks, with a peak in late December 2025. Although shorter than the previous one, it resulted in 12,537 emergency room visits for flu or flu-like symptoms, with 3,068 requiring hospitalization. Individuals aged 65 and over were particularly affected, accounting for 71% of post-emergency hospitalizations.
Covid-19 had a more limited circulation during the winter, following an autumn wave between early September and late October 2025. During this period, 1,955 emergency room visits for suspected Covid-19 were recorded.
Flu vaccination coverage has improved, reaching 56.4% among those aged 65 and over (a 3.1-point increase), but remains insufficient compared to the national target of 75%. In nursing homes (Ehpad), 81.3% of residents were vaccinated against the flu and 61% against Covid-19. Covid-19 estimates may be underestimated.
Starting October 13th, flu and Covid-19 vaccinations can be administered during the same appointment, at two different injection sites. Vaccination is recommended for individuals aged 65 and over, those with chronic illnesses, the immunocompromised, pregnant women, residents of medico-social establishments, and their close contacts.
For the 2026-2027 campaign, five flu vaccines are available: Flucelvax®, Influvac®, Vaxigrip®, Efluelda®, and Fluad®. Efluelda® and Fluad® are recommended for those over 65. The Comirnaty® XFG vaccine is offered for Covid-19, adapted to current variants.
Health professionals are actively engaged in informing and facilitating vaccine access, especially for the most vulnerable. Vaccination also protects healthcare workers and their contacts. However, vaccination rates among nursing home professionals remain low: one in four for the flu and less than 5% for Covid-19.
