Efluelda, the high-dose influenza vaccine developed by Sanofi, will return to French pharmacies this autumn, one year after its market withdrawal in April 2024. This decision follows a pronounced flu epidemic in the 2024-2025 season and opens a new chapter in France's vaccination strategy against influenza.

The French National Authority for Health (HAS) endorsed the reintroduction of Efluelda in early May 2024, recommending its use specifically for individuals aged over 65. This marks a shift from the authority's previous stance in 2020, when it deemed the vaccine's advantages in preventing flu cases and hospitalizations as too 'modest' to warrant enthusiastic recommendations.

The vaccine's re-approval comes after a period of negotiations regarding its price, which had previously resulted in its removal from the market.

With the recent spike in flu cases, the French health authorities reconsidered the need for a more effective vaccine for the elderly population, who are at higher risk from severe flu complications.

Sanofi faces competition in the flu vaccine market, with several other manufacturers producing standard-dose vaccines as well as other high-dose options.

The dynamics of this market could influence future pricing and accessibility of these vaccines to the public.

Health officials are emphasizing the importance of effective vaccination strategies as the flu season approaches, underlining that the elderly are particularly vulnerable and that high-dose vaccines may significantly mitigate the risks associated with influenza infections in this group.