Flu, Bronchiolitis or RSV? A Practical Winter Health Guide for Families in France
A clear, practical winter health guide for families in France. Understand the differences between flu, bronchiolitis and RSV, who is most at risk, when to seek medical help, and how healthcare costs and reimbursements work in France.
Every winter in France, respiratory illnesses surge — especially among babies, young children, older adults, and people with chronic health conditions. This year is no exception, with flu, bronchiolitis and RSV circulating simultaneously across much of the country.
This practical guide explains the differences between these illnesses, who is most at risk, what symptoms to watch for, when to seek medical care, and how costs and reimbursements work in France.
🩺 Flu, Bronchiolitis and RSV — What’s the Difference?
| Illness | Who it affects most | Main symptoms | When to seek care |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flu (Grippe) | All ages, especially elderly & at-risk adults | High fever, fatigue, headache, muscle pain, cough | Breathing difficulty, persistent fever, severe weakness |
| Bronchiolitis | Babies & toddlers (under 2) | Wheezing, rapid breathing, feeding problems | Blue lips, pauses in breathing, dehydration |
| RSV | Infants, elderly, immunocompromised | Cold-like symptoms that worsen over days | Breathing difficulty or signs of respiratory distress |
Important: If breathing becomes difficult or a child stops feeding or responding normally, call 15 (SAMU) or go to emergency services immediately.
👶 Why Bronchiolitis is Closely Monitored in France
Bronchiolitis places significant pressure on paediatric hospitals every winter in France, sometimes requiring transfers between regions when ICU beds fill up. Infants under three months and babies born prematurely are particularly vulnerable.
Parents should watch for:
- Fast or shallow breathing
- Nostrils flaring or ribcage pulling inwards
- Difficulty feeding or refusal to feed
- Unusual sleepiness or lack of response
If any of these occur, seek medical help urgently.
See also: Bronchiolitis Epidemic in France — Hospital Pressure & Prevention Measures
🏥 When Should You See a Doctor?
Contact your GP (médecin traitant) or an out-of-hours doctor if you notice:
- Fever lasting more than 3 days
- Persistent cough with breathing problems
- Unusual fatigue, confusion or fainting
- Dehydration or no urination in 12 hours (infants)
Call 15 or 112 if symptoms suddenly worsen or breathing becomes difficult.
💶 How Much Does Care Cost in France?
Consultations and treatment are reimbursed by the French health system (CPAM), with additional coverage provided by a mutuelle top-up policy.
- GP visit: generally reimbursed at 70% by CPAM
- Paediatric hospital care: largely covered
- Many winter illness medicines: partly reimbursed
Having a good mutuelle reduces out-of-pocket costs — especially for families and retirees.
Read more: Mutuelle in France: How to Choose the Right Level of Cover (2025 Guide)
🛡️ Practical Prevention Tips for Winter 2025
- Wash hands regularly and air rooms daily
- Keep babies away from sick visitors and crowded areas
- Avoid smoking near children or indoors
- Use saline spray to clear nasal passages
- Ensure vulnerable people receive eligible vaccinations
Prevention won’t stop every infection, but it reduces severity and spread.
🧭 Useful Related Guides
- How the French Healthcare System Actually Works — A Practical Guide for Expats
- France Recalls & Safety Alerts 2025 — What Every Household Should Know
- Guides & Information for Life in France
This article is informational and does not replace medical advice. When in doubt, contact a healthcare professional or emergency services.