The BBC reports new rules will be in place from 15 December. President Macron said from that date, proof of a booster jab would be needed to extend health pass validity.

The health pass became a requirement in France in July. It is needed as proof of vaccination, a negative test or recent recovery from Covid to enter most museums and cinemas, or to travel by train and plane.

The BBC said that on Tuesday, the country reported 12,476 new confirmed infections within 24 hours - the highest level since early September, with deaths now reaching more than 118,000 people since the start of the outbreak.

"We have not finished with the pandemic," president Macron said in his address, adding infection rates jumped 40% over last week.

France will next month make booster jabs available to those aged 50 to 64, stressing that more than 80% of Covid patients currently being treated in intensive care units were aged over 50.