For tourists & expats
Fever & flu in France: when to see a doctor and how to get help in English
Coming down with a fever or flu-like illness while travelling in France is miserable — and more stressful when you don't know the local system. This guide tells you what you can manage yourself, what the pharmacy can help with, and when you genuinely need a doctor you can talk to in English.
Understanding fever in France (the temperature system)
France uses Celsius exclusively. If you're used to Fahrenheit, the conversion can be confusing when you're already feeling unwell. Here's a quick reference:
| Temperature (°C) | Temperature (°F) | What it means |
|---|---|---|
| Below 37.5°C | Below 99.5°F | Normal range |
| 37.5°C – 38°C | 99.5°F – 100.4°F | Low-grade — monitor, rest, stay hydrated |
| 38°C – 38.5°C | 100.4°F – 101.3°F | Fever — consider a pharmacist's advice |
| 38.5°C – 39°C | 101.3°F – 102.2°F | Significant fever — medical consultation advisable |
| Above 39°C | Above 102.2°F | High fever — see a doctor, especially if not improving |
| Above 40°C | Above 104°F | Seek urgent medical attention |
The French pharmacy: your first port of call
France has one of the densest pharmacy networks in Europe — there is a pharmacie (identified by a green cross) in virtually every neighbourhood, and many are open late or have a duty pharmacist available out of hours (pharmacie de garde).
French pharmacists are clinically trained professionals. For a straightforward fever or mild flu, walking into a pharmacy and describing your symptoms is a perfectly valid first step. They can recommend appropriate over-the-counter products for symptomatic relief, advise whether you need a doctor, and tell you if the situation is urgent.
Useful words for the pharmacy: J'ai de la fièvre (I have a fever), J'ai la grippe (I have the flu), J'ai mal à la gorge (I have a sore throat), J'ai des frissons (I have chills).
What you can get without a prescription. Paracetamol (doliprane is the most common French brand), ibuprofen, throat lozenges, nasal decongestants and other symptomatic remedies are available over the counter. Antibiotics and antivirals require a prescription from a doctor.
Cold vs. flu: what's actually going on?
The distinction matters because they follow different trajectories and respond to different approaches.
A cold (rhume)
Gradual onset. Main symptoms: blocked or runny nose, sore throat, mild cough, low or no fever. Most people feel rough for 2–5 days and then gradually improve. There is no specific antiviral treatment for the common cold — rest, hydration and symptom management are the main tools.
Flu (grippe)
Sudden onset — often described as "I felt fine at noon and terrible by evening." Symptoms: high fever, muscle aches, significant fatigue, headache, dry cough. The flu hits harder than a cold and typically takes 5–7 days to resolve, though fatigue can persist longer. High-risk individuals (elderly, pregnant, immunocompromised, those with certain chronic conditions) should see a doctor promptly with flu symptoms.
When you need a doctor
Most cases of fever and flu in otherwise healthy adults can be managed with rest, hydration and over-the-counter symptom relief. You need a doctor if:
- Your fever is above 39°C and does not respond to paracetamol or ibuprofen within a few hours
- You have significant chest pain, difficulty breathing, or a feeling that something is seriously wrong
- You're getting worse rather than better after 4–5 days
- You develop a new or worsening cough that feels like it's in your chest
- You're in a high-risk group: pregnant, over 65, immunocompromised, or with chronic heart, lung or kidney disease
- A child under 3 months has any fever — this always warrants prompt medical attention
- You need a sick note for your employer, airline or insurer
For a genuine emergency — difficulty breathing, chest pain, a child with a very high fever who is unwell — call 15 (SAMU) or go to hospital urgences.
Getting an English-speaking doctor without leaving your hotel
For the situations above — a fever that isn't settling, a flu that seems to be developing into a chest infection, a sick note you need urgently — an online consultation with a French-licensed GP is often the fastest path to assessment and, if appropriate, treatment.
You describe your symptoms in English. The doctor assesses your situation personally — there is no automated triage or chatbot involved. If medication is appropriate, a prescription is issued as a signed PDF, valid at any French pharmacy. If your situation requires physical examination or tests, the doctor will direct you to the right care in Paris.
An invoice is provided automatically, suitable for travel insurance reimbursement claims. See our guide on medical reimbursement in France for detail on what insurers need.
Fever or flu and need a doctor?
English-speaking, French-licensed GP — from your hotel room. Prescription and invoice included.
Start on WhatsApp Or see consultation options & prices →Frequently asked questions
What is a normal fever temperature in France?
France uses Celsius. A temperature above 38°C (100.4°F) is generally considered a fever. Above 38.5°C (101.3°F) warrants attention; above 39°C (102.2°F) in an adult typically merits a medical consultation, especially if symptoms are not improving.
Can I get flu medication without a prescription in France?
Symptomatic treatments — paracetamol, ibuprofen, throat lozenges, nasal decongestants — are available over the counter at French pharmacies. Antivirals and antibiotics require a prescription. A pharmacist can advise on what's appropriate for your specific symptoms.
When does a fever or flu require a doctor in France?
See a doctor if your fever is above 39°C and unresponsive to medication; if you have chest pain or difficulty breathing; if you're in a high-risk group; if you're not improving after 5 days; or if you need a sick note. For a child under 3 months with any fever, seek immediate medical attention.
Will a French doctor give me antibiotics for the flu?
Influenza is caused by a virus, so antibiotics are not effective against the flu itself and French doctors will not prescribe them for viral illness. If a secondary bacterial infection develops (such as a bacterial chest infection or sinusitis), a doctor will assess this and prescribe appropriately if warranted.
Private consultation with a French-licensed GP. Invoice provided for private insurance reimbursement. Not a substitute for emergency care — call 15 or go to urgences for serious symptoms.