Key points

Deterioration in surveillance indicators

With a regional incidence rate of over 200 per 100,000 inhabitants, the spread of SARS-CoV-2 is accelerating in Nouvelle-Aquitaine, with 11 out of 12 departments reporting an incidence rate above 150 per 100,000 inhabitants. At the same time, the positivity rate continues to rise. Three departments are in a very dire situation with incidence rates exceeding 300 per 100,000 inhabitants: Creuse, Haute-Vienne, and Pyrénées-Atlantiques.

Tracking the epidemic over time shows a sharp increase in indicators across all age groups, from the youngest to the oldest.
The effective R value for the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region, calculated using SIDEP data through Saturday, October 24, was 1.57 (1.54–1.60) compared to 1.42 (1.42–1.43) for metropolitan France, confirming the acceleration of viral spread. Viral transmission is community-based and affects the entire population.

The healthcare system is increasingly under strain

In one week, the number of hospitalizations for COVID-19 increased by 50% in Nouvelle-Aquitaine. Overall, all healthcare activity indicators—whether SOS Médecins consultations, emergency room visits, or hospitalizations—are on the rise. This means that regardless of the severity of symptoms—from mild to severe—the number of people seeking care for suspected COVID-19 is rising across all age groups except those under 15.
The health impact is therefore very real, and today, our prevention efforts must continue, with particular attention paid to the most vulnerable, so as not to overwhelm the healthcare system, with one goal in mind: to preserve equal access to care.