Key Points

COVID-19

• In Week 49, Normandy continues to experience a sharp rise in Covid-19 transmission, with a regional incidence rate (IR) of 269 per 100,000 inhabitants—an increase of more than 13% compared to the previous week.

• In schools, the incidence rate among 6- to 10-year-olds remains very high (603 per 100,000 inhabitants), and more than half of the reported clusters are located in schools and universities.

• At the departmental level, IR values ranged from 229 per 100,000 inhabitants (Calvados) to 302 per 100,000 inhabitants (Seine-Maritime). The increase was most pronounced in Seine-Maritime, with a 23% rise compared to last week. In Orne, which had been the hardest-hit department until now, the incidence rate fell by 9% compared to the previous week.

• At the same time, the number of visits to emergency departments, new hospitalizations in general wards, and new admissions to intensive care units were once again on the rise, placing significant strain on hospitals.

• As of December 16, 92.9% of Normandy residents aged 12 and older had received at least one dose of the vaccine, and 91.7% were fully vaccinated. Among those aged 75 and older, 66.4% had received a booster dose.

• Against the backdrop of increased circulation of SARS-CoV-2 and seasonal viruses, particularly among the elderly, it is essential to encourage vaccination among those who have not yet been vaccinated, as well as the administration of booster shots to eligible individuals (including those aged 65 and older), and to maintain high adherence to preventive measures, given the effectiveness of these measures observed to date in containing the epidemic and preserving the healthcare system.

Flu

• Flu: In week 49, activity for flu-like symptoms remained low but was increasing. Visits to emergency departments were stable and at a level similar to that of 2019–2020. The number of calls to SOS Médecin was increasing, but activity remained low*. The number of influenza viruses detected by virology laboratories was stable (5 at Rouen University Hospital and 2 at Caen University Hospital) in Normandy. The incidence rate reported by the sentinel network was increasing and at a level similar to the previous year.

Bronchiolitis

• Bronchiolitis: In week 49, emergency department visits for bronchiolitis were decreasing, and activity remained high and similar to the 2019-2020 season. The number of hospitalizations was down (-22.6%). The number of consultations via SOS Médecin was at a level similar to the previous week. The number of isolated RSV cases among hospitalized patients was down.

Gastroenteritis

• Gastroenteritis: Activity for gastroenteritis in emergency departments was stable in week 49 and remained at a high level, higher than in previous seasons. The number of SOS Médecin consultations was increasing, and activity remained high during the week. The incidence of acute diarrhea estimated by the Sentinelles network was increasing and at a higher level than in previous years.