Key Points

In Week 35, indicators estimated from emergency care facilities in the Oscour® network (suspected COVID-19 cases) were on the rise compared to the previous week in Haute-Garonne and Hérault (a less pronounced trend for SOS Médecins consultations), and generally stable in the other departments. Indicators derived from ESMS surveillance in Occitanie were also on the rise.

Viral circulation at the regional level was increasing in all departments, and more actively in the most populous ones containing large urban areas. As of September 2, 2020, the departmental incidence rates of positive COVID-19 cases (identified by RT-PCR) were all above 10 cases per 100,000, and the positivity rate was above 5% for the Hérault department.

All age groups were affected, with higher incidence rates—as observed for several weeks—among those aged 20–30 (nearly one-third of tested positive cases) and, more broadly, among those aged 20–40 (approximately 50% of tested positive cases). The trend in these indicators over the past few weeks would be consistent with possible intergenerational transmission.

The weekly number of reported clusters was also on the rise across the region’s various departments, regardless of the type of community involved.

As of September 2, 2020, given the evolution of the epidemic, 3 departments in the region were classified as having a high vulnerability level (Gard, Haute-Garonne, and Hérault), 8 as moderate vulnerability, and 2 as limited vulnerability (Lot and Lozère) (see vulnerability map on the Santé publique France website). Gard, Haute-Garonne, and Hérault were still classified 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 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 efforts, and compliance with isolation measures for infected individuals.