What We Know About The Gastroenteritis And Flu Epidemics In France

Given the high risk of food poisoning during the holiday season, it's no surprise that a gastroenteritis epidemic developed in the last days of December. Currently, it is a rather nasty virus that spreads quickly and is already affecting a considerable number of people. What's more, an influenza has already put six regions in the pre-epidemic phase. So which regions are most affected? How to recognize the symptoms and what treatment to adopt? Discover the answers in the following paragraphs.

A gastroenteritis epidemic has invaded France

According to the Sentinels network, cases of gastroenteritis increased sharply during Christmas week. According to statistical data received from general practitioners, there are 289 consultations linked to acute diarrhea per 100,000 inhabitants. A fairly high number compared to the previous ten years, underlines epidemiologist Charly Kengne. According to her, this gastroenteritis epidemic is largely due to the cold as well as the fact that during the Christmas period families and friends get together in the same space, which promotes the spread of the virus.

But which regions are the most affected? So, for the moment the gastroenteritis epidemic is raging in the Grand Est, where 656 cases per 100,000 inhabitants are confirmed. Occitanie, New Aquitaine and Brittany follow.

On the prevention side, specialists advise washing your hands well, not touching your face and limiting contact with other people. It is also essential to pay special attention to washing foods, especially if they are eaten raw.

It is important to remember that the virus has an incubation period which varies between 24 and 72 hours. Then the infected people could suffer from common symptoms like diarrhea, nausea, stomach ache and fever (in some cases). However, it is recommended to first consult your general practitioner before going to the overloaded emergency room. Remember to rest well and hydrate.

A wave of influenza has already put 6 regions in the pre-epidemic phase

These include the following regions: Bourgogne-Franche-Comté, Brittany, Île-de-France, Occitanie, Pays de la Loire and Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur. 62 serious cases have been registered so far. Symptoms include high fever, cough, headache, asthenia and body aches. Typically, the incubation period lasts 24-48 hours but can increase up to 72 hours.

Although the web is full of all types of advice and tips for treating the flu yourself, it is better to consult your doctor to avoid a worsening. However, to protect yourself from the flu, hygiene practices are preferred. Added to this is also the limited contact with other people.

* Sources: the Sentinelles network