Influenza Surveillance Report – Week 2015-06: Nationally, according to the unified surveillance network, the incidence is rising, estimated at 914 cases per 100,000 inhabitants, well above the national epidemic threshold (168 per 100,000 inhabitants). SOS Médecins calls involving a diagnosis of influenza are very high (23% of activity). In hospitals, according to emergency departments participating in the Oscour® network, the number of emergency room visits for influenza was up compared to the previous week (+17%). In Auvergne, indicators are also at their highest. The incidence rate of influenza-like illnesses was 1,006 cases per 100,000 inhabitants, rising sharply over the past several weeks and well above the regional epidemic threshold (173 per 100,000 inhabitants). SOS Médecins calls with a diagnosis of influenza account for 28% of total activity, representing more than 300 consultations over the week. Data from hospital emergency departments (3% of influenza-related activity) and the university hospital’s virology department (17% of isolated virus samples testing positive) also show a clear increase in influenza activity.

Ebola Virus Disease: The WHO reports a total of 22,525 cases (suspected, probable, and confirmed) and 9,004 deaths in the three currently affected countries in West Africa (Guinea, Liberia, and Sierra Leone). The number of new cases is generally stable in Liberia (N=5) and Guinea (N=39) and showing a moderate increase in Sierra Leone (N=80) compared to previous weeks. In these three countries, however, the number of new cases per week remains well below that observed in the second half of 2014. In Guinea, pockets of resistance are observed, particularly in Lower Guinea, where hidden cases persist, unidentified by surveillance systems. Efforts to overcome resistance (acceptance of care) in the Forecariah district have led to the discovery of new cases. In Guinea, over the past two weeks, two new districts have reported cases for the first time. Transmission remains active in the three capitals: Conakry, Freetown, and Monrovia.