All you’ll need is the usual paperwork: a prescription or one of the official vouchers sent out by Assurance Maladie, France’s state health insurer. This winter, officials are worried about a new Covid strain – ominously nicknamed ‘Frankenstein’ – which has already triggered thousands of new cases. The Covid jab remains optional, but it’s strongly recommended for those most at risk. For the flu vaccine, millions of people will soon find a voucher in their postbox entitling them to get the jab for free. Appointments are required whether you’ve got a voucher or not, and you’ll need to bring your carte Vitale health card to the appointment.