HEALTH GUIDANCE FROM THE PRACTICE
Flu and Covid-19: protecting yourself for winter 2026–2027
Flu can be serious, even before age 65. Read five answers from the Dijon University Hospital infectious disease specialist and practical guidance to prepare for vaccination.
Campaign · October 13, 2026 — January 31, 2027
Key points
A chronic condition can increase your risk, even when it is well controlled.
Vaccination helps prevent complications and hospital admissions.
Flu and Covid-19 vaccines can be offered at the same appointment.
The interview in 5 questions
Five answers from the interview with Dr Michel DUONG VAN HUYEN (CHU Dijon Bourgogne), shared by the Côte-d’Or CPAM on 14 October 2026.
What are the dangers of flu?
Pneumonia, sometimes worsened by bacteria, heart attack, stroke or a worsening of an existing condition. In older people, dehydration and confusion can also lead to hospital admission.
Who is at risk of severe illness?
In particular, people with respiratory, heart, kidney, liver or severe neurological disease, diabetes or reduced immune defences. The risk also exists before age 65.
My condition is well controlled: why get vaccinated?
To reduce the risk of it becoming unstable, as well as complications, hospital admissions and deaths. Vaccine responses before age 65 are generally better than in older people.
What is his message to healthcare professionals?
Remember at-risk patients under 65: only around one in four was vaccinated during the last three campaigns. Underestimated risk, forgetting, hesitation or not being offered vaccination may explain this.
I am unsure: how can I discuss it?
Explain your concerns. Discussing the disease risks, vaccine benefits and possible side effects helps you make an informed choice.
What about the Covid-19 vaccine?
When both vaccinations are indicated, they can be given on the same day at two different injection sites. The professional checks the time since your last Covid-19 dose or infection with you.
Flu vaccination is particularly recommended from age 65, during pregnancy and for certain chronic conditions. It is repeated every year.
Preparing for your appointment
Keep up useful habits: ventilate rooms, wash your hands and wear a mask if you have respiratory symptoms.
Contact the practice to check your situation and arrange vaccination.
Prepare your carte Vitale, vaccination record and coverage voucher, if you received one.
Ask which vaccines and documents to bring. Reimbursement for the vaccine and for the injection may differ.
Sources and references
Written and sources checked on October 18, 2026.
Assurance Maladie — vaccination contre la grippe