Key Points

COVID-19

With the availability of at-home tests, the testing rate has decreased while the positivity rate has increased, implying a rise in the incidence rate. SARS-CoV-2 viral circulation is rising sharply, particularly among those under 15, despite a stable testing rate. In other age groups, the incidence rate is stable except for those aged 25–44, where it has increased by 15% alongside declining testing rates. The positivity rate is around 12% for those aged 65 and older and between 22% and 30% for other age groups.

SARS-CoV-2 is circulating at high levels throughout the region, with incidence rates ranging from 1.9% to 3%. Testing rates are stable or declining, while positivity rates are rising sharply. The Omicron and Delta variants are circulating in the region (57% and 43%, respectively, during the week of December 27, 2021). No B.1.640 cases have been identified in the region to date.

Pre-hospital activity is tending to stabilize. New hospital admissions increased in week 02, but at a lower rate than the number of positive cases.

Influenza

• Still in the pre-epidemic phase. SOS Médecins activity related to influenza is slightly increasing (Figure 1), while emergency department activity is decreasing this week.

• Three ongoing outbreaks of acute respiratory infection (ARI) in communities (none linked to influenza).

• One new severe case of influenza reported by the intensive care unit sentinel network in week 02 (a total of 3 influenza cases admitted to intensive care).

Bronchiolitis

• Transition to the post-epidemic phase. The bronchiolitis epidemic continues to decline despite a temporary increase in SOS Médecins consultations.

• The outbreak appears comparable to 2019, whereas in 2020 it was impacted by the circulation of COVID-19.

Gastroenteritis

• SOS Médecins activity is trending downward and remains at levels comparable to previous years.

• The rate of visits for gastroenteritis in emergency departments remains within the ranges observed during the 2019–2020 season.