Key Points

• In week 36, although epidemiological indicators pointed to a decline in SARS-CoV-2 transmission, the virus continued to circulate widely in the Île-de-France region. The situation requires close monitoring in light of the start of the school year and the return of Île-de-France residents to the region, the widespread transmission of the Delta variant, declining public adherence to preventive measures, and an incomplete vaccination coverage rate whose progress appears to be slowing.

• In Île-de-France, the regional incidence rate for week 36 continued to decline for the fourth consecutive week, reaching 107 cases per 100,000 inhabitants. The testing rate also continued to decline in the region, reflecting a decrease among those aged 15–64, while it remained stable among older adults (65 and older) and increased among children (under 15). The positivity rate decreased across all age groups.

• In week 36, the proportion of primary care visits for “suspected COVID-19” decreased among SOS Médecins associations and in emergency departments. At the hospital level, the number of new hospitalizations and new admissions to critical care decreased, confirming the improvement in the hospital situation. The number of reported deaths in hospitals among COVID-19 patients decreased, and the number of deaths from all causes and across all age groups in Île-de-France remained within the usual fluctuation ranges since week 19 of 2021.

• As of September 12, 72.6% of the Île-de-France population of all ages had received at least one dose of the vaccine, and 67.9% were fully vaccinated. The increase in vaccination coverage with at least one dose remained low and continued to slow. Against a backdrop of significant viral circulation, widespread transmission of the Delta variant, and the return from summer vacations, vaccination of all eligible individuals—particularly those in contact with vulnerable people—must be strongly encouraged with the goal of achieving a sufficient level of herd immunity as quickly as possible and avoiding further strain on hospitals.

• Alongside vaccination, it is also essential to maintain a high level of adherence to preventive measures, particularly the observance of protective measures, limiting risky contacts, and self-isolation in the event of symptoms, a confirmed infection, or contact with a confirmed case.