Key Points

Viral circulation is intensifying in Occitanie and has reached a high level for the region.

• In Week 03, COVID-19 syndromic surveillance indicators (use of emergency care, visits to private practices) were on the rise at the regional level.

• Virological indicators (incidence and positivity rates) were at high levels and rising in most departments of the region, particularly in Gers, Lozère, Tarn, and Pyrénées-Orientales. The trend in these indicators points to an acceleration in viral circulation.

• Weekly numbers of new hospital admissions were also rising. In contrast, admissions to intensive care units remained stable at the regional level. Reports from long-term care facilities have also been increasing in recent weeks.

• As of January 26, R-value estimates for Occitanie were significantly above 1 for all three data sources: SI-DEP, OSCOUR®, and SI-VIC.

• Regarding mortality data, the weekly number of deaths from all causes observed at the regional level was still significantly higher than expected in week 02. Increases among the oldest age group (65 years and older) were estimated in Aude, Gard, and Pyrénées-Orientales. The number of hospital deaths was also increasing at the regional level in week 03.

• Epidemiological indicators were generally on the rise in week 03 in most departments and were at high levels, particularly for virological indicators. Viral circulation is intensifying in Occitanie.