Every winter in France, influenza can have severe consequences. In 2025, it led to 115,000 emergency room visits and 12,700 deaths. The most exposed individuals are those aged 65 and over, even if in good health, as well as people with chronic diseases or respiratory symptoms. In these groups, the flu can more easily lead to serious complications requiring hospitalization.
Vaccination is the most effective way to protect oneself. It helps limit the risks of high fever, respiratory symptoms, and prevents cardiac or pulmonary complications. As the influenza virus evolves annually, an adapted vaccination is necessary each autumn.
Although vaccination does not guarantee complete immunity, it helps the body react more quickly in case of infection. In France, approximately 2,000 lives are saved each year among people aged 65 and over thanks to this preventive measure. Side effects are generally mild, such as slight fever or pain at the injection site, and are far less significant than the potential complications of the flu.
Barrier gestures, while essential, are not sufficient for complete protection. Vaccination is therefore necessary to strengthen the immune defenses. AP-HP encourages prompt vaccination for optimal protection this winter, as the vaccine takes about 15 days to become fully effective. It is advisable to discuss this with a healthcare professional.
For AP-HP professionals, each hospital is organized to facilitate a simple and rapid vaccination, with all practical information available on their establishment's intranet.
