COVID-19: Epidemiological Update for June 23, 2022

Published on 23 June 2022

Key Points

In Week 24, SARS-CoV-2 transmission continues to rise across the entire mainland, with an increase in new hospitalizations, while vaccination coverage for booster doses remains significantly insufficient.

Mainland France:
- Incidence and positivity rates rising across all regions and age groups
- Rate of new hospitalizations rising, particularly among those aged 80 and older
Overseas territories:
- Virological indicators remain at very high levels but are decreasing in Martinique
- Incidence rate continues to rise in French Guiana

Variants

Omicron BA.2 sublineage: 51% of interpretable sequences from the Flash S23 survey (06/07)
Gradual replacement of BA.2 by BA.5, detection of which is rising sharply (41%)
Increase in the presence of the L452 mutation in screening (64% in S24 vs. 47% in S23), linked to the rise of certain Omicron sublineages, including BA.4 and BA.5

Prevention

Vaccination as of June 20, 2022 (Covid Vaccine data):
- Booster dose coverage at 74.5% among those aged 18 and older and 84.4% among those aged 65 and older
- Only 26.5% of those aged 60–79 and 30.1% of those aged 80 and older eligible for the second booster dose have actually received it
- Vaccination efforts for the booster dose should be accelerated among eligible individuals
Nosocomial transmission of COVID-19: Vigilance must be maintained through early case identification and strict adherence to infection control measures in healthcare facilities
In the context of increased circulation of SARS-CoV-2, adherence to combined measures is essential, particularly to protect the most vulnerable populations:
- It remains necessary to self-isolate in the event of symptoms or a positive COVID-19 test
- It is essential for individuals to follow preventive measures, including wearing a mask (in the presence of vulnerable people and in crowded indoor spaces or during large gatherings), handwashing, and frequent ventilation of enclosed spaces