Bronchiolitis Epidemic Intensifies in France: Hospitals Under Pressure and Prevention Measures Stepped Up

Bronchiolitis Epidemic Worsens Across France

The annual bronchiolitis epidemic is intensifying across France, with cases rising sharply among infants and toddlers. According to the latest figures from Santé Publique France, twelve out of thirteen mainland regions are now in the epidemic phase, with only Corsica remaining in a pre-epidemic state — though health officials expect it to follow soon.

From December 1st to 7th, more than 3,000 infants under one year old were admitted to emergency departments with bronchiolitis symptoms, representing over 20% of paediatric emergency visits nationwide.

The French overseas territories of Guadeloupe and Martinique have also entered an epidemic phase, signalling the widespread reach of the virus this winter.

Heavy Pressure on Paediatric Services

Hospitals, particularly in urban areas, are once again feeling the strain. The hospitalisation rate after emergency visits reached 36.5% in late November — up from 32.2% just a week earlier.

Regions such as Île-de-France, already hit early in the season, are experiencing the heaviest pressure on paediatric wards. Sixteen infants have been transferred to neighbouring regions since October to ensure proper care capacity.

Professor Naïm Ouldali, a paediatrician at Robert-Debré Hospital in Paris, painted a stark picture:

“We have 36 beds in this service, and 36 beds are occupied — full.”

The French Health Minister, Stéphanie Rist, has acknowledged the strain and assured that the situation is being “closely monitored at the national level”.

Understanding Bronchiolitis

Bronchiolitis is a common and highly contagious viral infection that affects the lower respiratory tract, primarily in infants under two years old. It is often caused by the Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) and typically peaks during the colder months.

Symptoms include:

Persistent cough and wheezing
Rapid or difficult breathing
Poor feeding and fatigue
Occasional fever

While most cases remain mild, severe infections can cause significant breathing difficulties, especially in very young infants — often requiring oxygen therapy or hospital monitoring.

Prevention Measures Strengthened Nationwide

To reduce hospital admissions, French health authorities have rolled out new prevention strategies in 2025:

1. Vaccination for Pregnant Women

Since September 2025, pregnant women between 32 and 36 weeks of pregnancy can receive the Abrysvo vaccine. This helps mothers pass passive immunity to their babies before birth, offering protection during the first months of life.

2. Monoclonal Antibody for Infants

Newborns can now receive Beyfortus (nirsevimab) — a monoclonal antibody that provides immediate protection against RSV for several months.

These combined measures have already shown strong results:

Over 450,000 infants protected this season.
An estimated 5,800 hospitalisations prevented, according to Santé Publique France.

Health authorities note that the epidemic is likely to continue until mid-January, following a similar pattern to pre-pandemic years.

How Parents Can Protect Their Children

Beyond medical protection, simple preventive steps can make a big difference:

Wash hands frequently before touching babies.
Avoid crowded indoor spaces with newborns.
Keep babies away from smokers or anyone showing cold symptoms.
Clean toys, bottles, and baby equipment regularly.
Ensure good indoor ventilation.

Parents are also advised to consult a doctor immediately if their infant shows signs of laboured breathing or feeding difficulties.

Outlook for the Coming Weeks

While some indicators show a slight stabilisation in cases, experts warn the situation remains fragile. Hospitals continue to work under high pressure, particularly in large urban centres like Paris, Lyon, and Lille.

The government reminds parents not to panic but to remain vigilant, emphasising that the majority of bronchiolitis cases are mild and resolve within 10 days with proper home care and monitoring.