The first figures released since the start of the academic year confirm a resurgence of respiratory infections across France. Emergency room visits for suspected Covid-19 increased during the summer of 2026, a trend that continues into mid-September. Health authorities remain cautious: patients are no longer systematically tested, and positive cases are no longer subject to mandatory reporting, making it difficult to accurately estimate viral circulation.
Available data shows that the current level of consultations remains well below the peak observed in the fall of 2025. Hospitals are reporting no signs of being overwhelmed, and the pressure on emergency services remains manageable. This situation allows us to rule out, for the time being, the possibility of an epidemic resurgence comparable to previous waves. Healthcare professionals are monitoring the evolution of indicators week by week, but urge people not to overreact to the situation.
No hospital strain in sight
The start of the school year traditionally promotes the spread of respiratory viruses, and this year is no exception. Infections increase automatically with the return to group settings, whether it's Covid-19 or other seasonal pathogens. Health authorities are reluctant to speak of a new wave as long as hospital data does not show significant strain on capacity.
