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 24, 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?

During Week 34, indicators estimated from emergency care facilities in the Oscour® network (suspected COVID-19 cases) were on the rise compared to the previous week in Hérault, while remaining stable in the other departments. Data from the SOS Médecins associations showed an increase for SOS Médecins Toulouse. Indicators derived from ESMS surveillance in Occitanie were also on the rise.
Viral circulation at the regional level is increasing in all departments, and more rapidly in the most populous departments that are home to major metropolitan areas. For the first time in the region since the lifting of lockdown measures, all departments in our region have a case incidence rate for positive COVID-19 cases (identified by RT-PCR) exceeding 10 cases per 100,000. All age groups are now affected, with incidence rates having been higher among those aged 20–40 for several weeks. The trend in incidence by age group over the past few weeks suggests the onset of intergenerational transmission.

As of August 24, given the evolution of the epidemic, the Hérault department was classified as high risk, while Gard, Haute-Garonne, Hautes-Pyrénées, Pyrénées-Orientales, Tarn, and Tarn-et-Garonne were classified as moderate risk (see the vulnerability map on the Santé publique France website). Since then, Gard, Haute-Garonne, and Hérault have been designated as areas of active transmission, along with 18 other French
departments

What are the public health implications in the region?

The increase in viral circulation in most departments of the region—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 season. 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 efforts, and compliance with isolation measures for infected individuals.