As the flu epidemic escalates in Southern France, Mayor of Nice Christian Estrosi has stepped up efforts to curb its spread by reinforcing preventative measures. These include encouraging vaccination for at-risk individuals and the reintroduction of mandatory mask-wearing in certain municipal settings, such as care homes and administrative offices.
The winter flu crisis is intensifying across France, with the Alpes-Maritimes among the departments flagged as a red zone. The combination of the holiday season and the return to school has amplified the virus’s spread and put a considerable strain on health services.
To mitigate risks, mask-wearing is now required for staff and visitors in municipal care facilities, such as nursing homes and independent living residences managed by the Communal Social Action Centre (CCAS). Masks are also mandatory for symptomatic individuals visiting municipal administrative offices. Public buildings are being stocked with hand sanitiser and masks to support these protocols.
“Faced with the sharp increase in the flu epidemic in France and in our department, I call on our fellow citizens to be extremely vigilant by respecting barrier gestures,” wrote the longtime mayor on X.
The Ville de Nice is also prioritising vaccination efforts for vulnerable populations, particularly those aged 75 and older. Dedicated vaccination campaigns are being held at the Hancy vaccination centre, with home visits available for residents who are unable to travel by calling +33 (0)4 92 17 44 90. Health officials in the city have been keen to emphasise that it’s not too late to get vaccinated and that the flu vaccine remains the most effective way to prevent severe cases of the illness.
Mayor Estrosi, meanwhile, is continuing to urge vigilance, stressing the importance of barrier measures such as mask-wearing, frequent handwashing, and the use of hand sanitiser to slow the spread of the virus. He has also sought to remind residents to avoid overburdening emergency services, encouraging them to consult their primary care doctor if symptoms appear.
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