Key Points

In Week 01 (January 4–10, 2021), COVID-19 epidemiological surveillance indicators showed a moderate increase in SARS-CoV-2 circulation in Guadeloupe and Saint Martin, and a high level of circulation in Saint Barthélemy. In this context, the situation must be closely monitored in the coming weeks to anticipate a possible resurgence of the epidemic in the general population, particularly in the Northern Islands where several clusters of cases linked to travelers have been reported. The new variant has not yet been detected in the analysis of the samples collected. However, the risk of new variants being introduced must be taken into account in our territories.

Guadeloupe

Virological surveillance indicators show an upward trend last week, partly due to the increase in testing during the holiday season. The positivity rate has remained below the 5% alert threshold since late November (2020-48). The incidence rate remains below the alert threshold of 50 per 100,000 inhabitants. An increase in the number of outpatient visits for acute respiratory infections was observed last week compared to the previous week. Note that there were five new hospitalizations last week (2021-01). Vigilance remains essential.

Saint Martin

Virological surveillance indicators increased last week compared to previous weeks. The virus is still actively circulating in Saint Martin. The incidence rate is above the alert threshold of 50 per 100,000 inhabitants, and the positivity rate has exceeded the vigilance threshold of 5% (6.6% last week, 2021-01, compared to 3.6% in 2020-53).

Saint-Barthélemy

Indicators from virological surveillance, private practice, and reports of cluster cases showed a sharp increase last week, reflecting an active resurgence of viral circulation on the island. The incidence rate is above the alert threshold of 50 per 100,000 inhabitants, and the positivity rate is at the threshold of the 5% vigilance threshold, the highest value reached since late September (2020-39). Given the small population size, the incidence rate should be interpreted with caution.