The Arnault Tzanck Institute in Saint-Laurent-du-Var has opened a new medical centre during a critical period for public health in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur. High levels of flu cases are continuing to put strain on hospitals and doctors’ surgeries across the region, with one in 10 deaths linked to the virus since the start of 2025.
The new clinic at the Arnault Tzanck Institute in Saint-Laurent-du-Var is already proving to be a vital resource for the community. As hospitals in the region face immense pressure due to overburdened emergency rooms, the facility’s launch offers much-needed relief, providing an alternative for patients seeking urgent care without the delays encountered in hospitals.
Reports indicate that by mid-morning on opening day, the waiting room was nearly filled to capacity with people seeking care for complaints such as stomachaches, flu symptoms, and minor trauma.
FLU EPIDEMIC CONTINUES TO AFFECT THE REGION
The timing of the new centre’s opening is fortuitous, as flu cases remain significant in the region. Public Health France reports that activity at SOS Médecins remains high, and while emergency room visits are slightly declining, the proportion of hospitalisations following these visits continues to rise.
Designed to bridge the gap between general practitioners and hospital emergency services, the new clinic aims to “allow patients and their families to access urgent medical care when their general practitioner is unavailable, without overwhelming emergency services,” according to Michel Salvadori, the General Director of the Arnault Tzanck Institute.
The facility operates seven days a week, from 9am to 8pm, with no appointment necessary. Seven general practitioners and emergency doctors are available throughout the week to manage the high patient volume.
Looking ahead, the medical offerings at the Saint-Laurent-du-Var clinic are set to expand, with plans to establish a new cardiology centre by 2026.
For residents seeking medical care, the Regional Health Agency (ARS) provides an online map detailing available health centres, unscheduled care facilities and multi-professional practices offering evening and weekend consultations. In emergencies or life-threatening situations, residents are advised to call 15 immediately.
Vaccination Campaign Extended Until End of February
Meanwhile, the French government has decided to extend its flu and COVID-19 vaccination campaign until 28th February due to the continued high intensity of the flu epidemic, which is affecting all age groups, particularly those aged 65 and over.
Public Health France has been reporting significant impacts on deaths and hospital activity in recent weeks, noting the unusual co-circulation of three flu viruses and the ongoing circulation of COVID-19, which increases the risk of co-infections.
Vaccination is recommended for vulnerable groups and their close contacts, with vaccines available in pharmacies across the country to support the ongoing effort to limit the spread of respiratory viruses.
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