Key Points

COVID-19

The decline in the incidence rate is observed primarily among those under 65, but must be interpreted in light of a simultaneous and proportional decrease in testing rates within this age group. Although it affects all age groups, the decline in testing rates is more pronounced among those under 65. The testing rate is also potentially underestimated, as results from self-tests are not reported in SI-DEP. The positivity rate is stable across all age groups but remains higher (>40%) among those under 45. A decline appears to be beginning but will need to be confirmed in the coming days. The positivity rate remains difficult to interpret due to the widespread use of self-tests. A positive self-test often preceded an antigen or PCR test performed to “officially document” a COVID-19 infection for the purpose of obtaining sick leave or a vaccine passport.

The situation described at the regional level is consistent at the departmental level, with a decline in the incidence rate and a stable positivity rate amid a decrease in testing rates.

Flu

• The region remains in the pre-epidemic phase. SOS Médecins activity related to influenza is stable compared to last week, as is activity in emergency departments.

• 5 ongoing outbreaks of acute respiratory infections (ARI) in communities (3 influenza-related outbreaks among the 20 reports since September 1, 2021).

• One new severe case of influenza reported by the intensive care unit sentinel network this week (a total of 4 influenza cases admitted to intensive care).

Bronchiolitis

• The bronchiolitis outbreak continues to decline.

• The epidemic trend appears comparable to that observed during the 2019-20 season, with a peak in December and a decline continuing into January.

Gastroenteritis

• SOS Médecins activity continues to increase slightly while remaining within the range of the 2019-20 season.

• The rate of emergency department visits for gastroenteritis continues to rise this week as well and exceeds the levels of the previous two seasons.