Key Points

• In Week 51, the incidence rate remained stable compared to the previous week, indicating that SARS-CoV-2 continues to circulate actively in the region. There has been a sharp increase in testing activity, accompanied by a decrease in the positivity rate, possibly linked to an influx of asymptomatic individuals seeking to get tested before the Christmas holidays to limit the risk of exposure to their family members. This trend suggests a high level of vigilance among the population, which must be maintained throughout the holiday season.

• In week 51 (December 14–20), the number of new confirmed COVID-19 cases stabilized at approximately 5,100 new confirmed cases in the region. The incidence rate has been stable for four weeks at 85.7 cases per 100,000 inhabitants. This trend is observed across all age groups.

• The positivity rate decreased significantly in week 51, dropping to 3.3% from 4.8% in week 50. This decline is observed across all age groups. At the same time, the testing rate has risen sharply, with 2,600 tests performed per 100,000 inhabitants, compared to 1,800 per 100,000 in week 50.

• The indicators presented are based on the new definition, which takes into account individuals who tested positive for the first time in over 60 days and those who tested negative multiple times. They cover RT-PCR tests only through November 15 (week 46), and starting November 16 (week 47), they include antigen tests (laboratory-based rapid diagnostic tests and rapid antigen tests entered into SI-DEP by healthcare professionals).