Covid-19 is making a comeback in the Île-de-France region this autumn (2025), although the situation remains far from the epidemic peaks of 2020 and 2021. The XFG variant, dubbed Frankenstein because of its hybrid origin from two Omicron sub-variants, currently dominates the virus circulation. In the Ile-de-France region, after several weeks of steady growth in the number of emergency room visits for suspected coronavirus, the Santé publique France agency notes a stabilization of the epidemic in its October 8, 2025 bulletin.
The figures published reveal that Val-de-Marne stands out as the Ile-de-France département where epidemiological activity remains the most intense. With 364.26 emergency room visits per 100,000 inhabitants linked to suspected Covid-19, this territory boasts the highest rates in the region. Hauts-de-Seine followed with 323.97 visits per 100,000 inhabitants, Paris recorded 244.37 cases and Seine-Saint-Denis 218.62. These figures show that the virus is still circulating actively, although the trend appears to be stabilizing.
This variant, whose scientific name is XFG, is the result of the fusion of two Omicron sub-variants. The World Health Organization placed it under surveillance at the end of June 2025, due to its higher contagiousness. However, experts at the Institut Pasteur are reassuring. According to them, this variant is more contagious but no more dangerous than its predecessors. Symptoms remain similar to those observed in previous waves: colds, sore throats, aches and pains, runny noses and sometimes fever.
Santé publique France's analysis shows a stabilization in the overall number of visits for suspected Covid-19, despite an increase in the 15-64 age group. Data from SOS médecins and the wastewater study also confirm this stabilization, following steady growth since early September 2025. At the beginning of September 2025, the XFG variant accounted for over 80% of infections recorded in Europe, according to the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control.
Wearing a mask is not currently mandatory in France. However, health authorities strongly recommend wearing a surgical mask in the presence of others as soon as symptoms such as fever, cough or headache appear. Masks are also recommended for fragile people in enclosed, crowded places, and on public transport. The classic barrier measures remain essential: regular hand-washing, frequent ventilation of rooms and distancing oneself from vulnerable people. In certain healthcare establishments, such as hospitals or nursing homes, wearing a mask may still be compulsory to protect the most fragile patients and residents.
The Covid-19 and seasonal flu vaccination campaign starts on October 14, 2025 in mainland France. It will run until January 31, 2026. This dual campaign is aimed primarily at people over 65, and those at risk of developing severe forms of the disease. For this fall campaign, a single Comirnaty vaccine adapted to the LP.8.1 variant will be used. The two vaccines can be administered on the same day, on two different arms.
The Covid-19 vaccine is reimbursed at 100% by the French health insurance system, regardless of the profile of the person vaccinated. It can be administered by doctors, nurses, pharmacists or midwives. The waiting period after the last vaccination or Covid-19 infection is 6 months, reduced to 3 months for immunocompromised people and those aged 80 and over. Health authorities reiterate the importance of this vaccination to protect the most vulnerable populations against a viral circulation that remains present, even if it is less intense than at the start of the pandemic.
