Key Points

This epidemiological update focuses on virological surveillance data and reports of clusters (or transmission hotspots), particularly those in long-term care facilities. It is based on an analysis of data through August 19, 2020, and complements the analysis conducted at the national level (Santé publique France website). All indicators monitored by Santé publique France are detailed in the educational document on COVID-19 epidemiological surveillance tailored to the challenges of the national strategy for lifting lockdown measures, published on June 18 by Santé publique France.

What is the current situation in Occitanie?

Indicators of emergency care utilization were on the rise over the past week at the regional level. This trend is observed in several departments, particularly in Hérault and Haute-Garonne.

The indicators showing the sharpest increase are the virological indicators (SI-DEP), with the regional incidence rate nearly doubling this week compared to the previous week. The main departments affected are Hérault, Haute-Garonne, Gard, Tarn, and to a lesser extent, Hautes-Pyrénées. All age groups were affected, particularly those aged 20–30, who account for nearly one-third of positive cases tested by RT-PCR at the regional level (more broadly, those aged 20–50). These observations show that viral circulation at the regional level and in certain departments increased significantly over the past week (the regional incidence rate nearly doubled this week compared to the previous week).

As of August 19, given the evolution of the epidemic, four departments in the region are classified as having a moderate level of vulnerability: Haute-Garonne, Hérault, Gard (since Friday, August 14), and Tarn, the latter having been reclassified on August 18 (see the vulnerability map on the Santé publique France website).

What are the public health implications in the region?

The increase in viral circulation in certain departments of the region—which is not always linked to reported clusters—calls for stricter enforcement of preventive measures (barrier measures, physical distancing) and testing to limit the emergence or persistence of transmission chains, particularly in areas with higher viral circulation and greater population mixing during this summer period.

To limit the spread of the virus, it is also necessary to intensify public awareness efforts and the “test-trace-isolate” strategy. It is essential that anyone exhibiting symptoms suggestive of COVID-19 or having even the slightest doubt undergo a diagnostic test and consult a doctor as soon as possible. This course of action must be accompanied by adherence to barrier measures, participation in contact tracing and monitoring, and compliance with isolation measures for infected individuals.

Any COVID-19 cluster (defined as the occurrence of at least 3 confirmed or probable cases within a 7-day period, belonging to the same community or having participated in the same gathering of people, whether they know each other or not) must be reported immediately to the focal point of the Occitanie Regional Health Agency: ars31-alerte@ars.sante.fr. To guide cluster investigations, a methodological guide has been published on the Santé publique France website.

The Occitanie Regional Health Agency has also launched “an information campaign aimed at the general public to remind people of preventive measures and safe habits this summer”