Macron urges caution in Christmas message and thanks care workers

French President Emmanuel Macron wished the nation a happy Christmas period on Thursday, but warned families to take precautions against catching the coronavirus.

"Let's take care of each other," he wrote in a tweet, calling on people to observe social-distancing guidance and take an at-home test before attending gatherings. Anyone with symptoms should isolate and alert others, he added.

Macron also thanked workers in the health and care professions.

In France, the number of coronavirus infections has risen dramatically in recent weeks.

Most recently, the seven-day average of cases per 100,000 people stood at about 550.

Situation 'critical'

French government spokesman Gabriel Attal called the situation critical and warned the more contagious Omicron variant of the virus was bringing with it a new wave.

He also called for caution during the holidays.

There are no official restrictions on private gatherings in France.