Influenza has been actively circulating in the Alpes-Maritimes since early December. In Nice, emergency services and medical offices are experiencing a marked increase in consultations. The Nice University Hospital (CHU) and the city of Nice are calling for vigilance, adherence to barrier gestures, and vaccination.
In the Alpes-Maritimes, influenza is well established. The virus has been circulating since early December. The situation is observed throughout the territory, but local indicators show more activity than in the rest of the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region.
At the Nice University Hospital (CHU), the pressure is clear. For several days, emergency services have recorded an increase of more than 200% in hospitalizations related to influenza. This rapid increase occurred just days before the end-of-year holidays, a period marked by numerous travels and family gatherings.
Among the hospitalized patients, 75% are 75 years and older. These figures confirm the particular vulnerability of elderly individuals to influenza infection. Complications primarily affect this group. Hospital stays are multiplying, directly impacting the organization of care.
Saturated Offices and Increased Emergency Visits
Hospital strain extends to community medicine. In Nice, medical offices are under significant demand. Consultations for influenza account for up to 60% of patients received by some doctors. This influx complicates the management of other pathologies and lengthens the time required to get an appointment.
Figures from the Regional Health Agency of Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur (PACA) confirm this trend. In the Alpes-Maritimes, the rate of emergency visits for influenza reaches 3.6%. This rate is higher than the regional average, set at 2.4%, according to the latest report from ARS PACA, pending update.
Children are also affected. Those aged 0-4 represent a significant portion of emergency visits. In the department, children with influenza account for 7.4% of visits, double that of adults. This situation strains both pediatric services and general emergencies.
In response to this viral circulation, the Nice University Hospital (CHU) has decided to reinstate the obligation to wear masks throughout its premises. This measure aims to protect the most vulnerable patients, limit internal transmissions, and ensure continuity of care during the holiday season.
Wearing a mask is also strongly recommended in places hosting vulnerable individuals. This recommendation particularly applies to visitors in nursing homes (EHPAD) and autonomous residences. Preventing infections in these facilities remains a central challenge.
As the end-of-year holidays approach, health authorities remind the public of barrier gestures. Wearing a mask at the first sign of symptoms like cough, fever, or sore throat remains advised. Regular ventilation of living spaces is among the recommendations. Frequent handwashing remains essential. Sneezing into one’s elbow helps limit the spread of the virus, according to ARS PACA.
Vaccination remains the most effective measure to reduce the risks of severe forms, hospitalizations, and the transmission of influenza. The flu and Covid-19 vaccination campaign continues until January 31, 2026. Vaccination is available at pharmacies, through general practitioners, and in vaccination centers. In Nice, the Hancy Street center remains active. Access to vaccination is provided in municipal centers. Prevention advice is offered in health centers.
In this context, individual mobilization remains crucial. Adhering to barrier gestures and opting for vaccination help limit the circulation of the virus. These practices also condition the capacity of healthcare services to cope with the holiday season under controlled conditions.
