France Launches 2025-2026 Flu and COVID-19 Vaccination Campaign Amidst Rising Concerns
Table of Contents
France’s annual influenza and COVID-19 vaccination campaign officially began October 14th, following a particularly severe influenza epidemic during the 2024-2025 winter season and a noted decline in overall vaccination rates. This year’s rollout features a range of vaccine options and updated guidance on administration and coverage.
Addressing a Looming Public Health Challenge
The launch comes as health officials prepare for another potentially challenging respiratory virus season. A senior official stated that the campaign aims to protect vulnerable populations and reduce the strain on the healthcare system. The 2024-2025 winter saw a significant surge in influenza cases, prompting renewed emphasis on preventative measures.
Flu Vaccine Options Expanded for 2025-2026
This year, individuals have a choice of five different flu vaccines, all of which are trivalent. Three standard vaccines – Vaxigrip, Influvac, and Flucelvax – are available for individuals aged six months and older.
However, a key development is the availability of two “improved” vaccines designed to bolster the immune response in older adults. The high-dose Efluelda vaccine (recommended for those 65 and older) and the adjuvanted Fluad vaccine (recommended for those 65 and older, with a minimum age of 50) arrived after a period of administrative delays regarding pricing and approval. The High Authority for Health (HAS) now preferentially recommends both vaccines for individuals aged 65 and above.
COVID-19 Vaccination: Streamlined Approach
For COVID-19, the campaign will utilize a single vaccine: Cormirnaty LP.8.1, provided through state stock. The vaccine is available in both adult (12 years and over) and pediatric (5-11 years) formulations, offered as a ready-to-use solution and a 6-dose bottle. For the youngest children (6 months to 4 years), a 3-dose vial requiring reconstitution is available. It’s important to note that Public Health France will not be providing the necessary sodium chloride for reconstitution this year.
Expanded Access to Vaccination Services
Access to vaccination has been broadened this year. Pharmacists who have completed specialized training in flu and COVID-19 vaccination, and have registered their activity, can now prescribe and administer vaccines to individuals aged 11 (flu) and 5 (COVID-19) and older, regardless of whether they fall within prioritized groups.
This expanded authority also extends to pharmacy students in their fifth year of study, provided they are working under the supervision of a qualified pharmacist and have completed relevant vaccination training. Pharmacy preparers can also administer vaccines under the direct supervision of a pharmacist, further increasing access.
Flu vaccination is fully covered by health insurance for individuals at high risk of complications – including those 65 and older, individuals with chronic illnesses, pregnant women, and those with obesity – as well as close contacts of vulnerable individuals. It is also available to all children aged 2 to 17, with 65% coverage through a special health insurance voucher for those without pre-existing conditions. Individuals outside of these target groups will not have insurance coverage. Health insurance resources, including a “memo sheet,” are available through Cespharm and blank vouchers can be found on amelipro.
Notably, there will be no prioritization of target groups this year. COVID-19 vaccination remains 100% covered by health insurance for all individuals.
Concurrent Vaccination Encouraged
Individuals eligible for both influenza and COVID-19 vaccination can receive both injections on the same day, administered at different sites. According to HAS guidance from 2023, this approach simplifies the vaccination process and data supports its safety and effectiveness.
Campaign Timeline and Future Considerations
The vaccination campaign is currently scheduled to run through January 31, 2026, but this end date could be extended depending on the evolving epidemic situation, as has been the case in previous years. .
