Nationwide, the incidence rate was declining across all age groups. It remained highest among young adults and those under 18. In France, as of September 21, 2021, 74.5% of the population had received at least one dose of the vaccine, and 71.9% were fully vaccinated. Against a backdrop of declining adherence to preventive measures, vigilance is necessary to maintain the current downward trend in the epidemic: the progress of vaccination remains essential, combined with other preventive measures (adherence to preventive measures, limiting risky contacts, and self-isolation in the event of symptoms, a confirmed infection, or contact with a confirmed case).

Incidence rate continues to decline across all age groups

Nationally, the incidence rate continued to decline in week 37. It stood at 73 per 100,000 inhabitants (-27%), corresponding to an average of 6,982 cases diagnosed per day. It was declining across all age groups. The testing rate, including antigen and PCR tests (excluding self-tests), remained very high at 5,053 per 100,000 inhabitants (-4%). It was stable or decreasing across all age groups except among those under 10, where it continued to rise (+59%). The positivity rate was decreasing to 1.4% (-0.5 percentage points), with a more pronounced decline among children under 10, linked to increased testing in this age group.

In mainland France, the incidence rate decreased in all regions and was below 100 per 100,000 inhabitants, except in Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur (152). In week 37, 41 departments had an incidence rate below 50 per 100,000 inhabitants (versus 16 in week 36). The testing rate remained high in all regions. In the overseas territories, viral circulation continued to decline in Martinique (incidence rate 220, -23%) and Guadeloupe (171, -34%). In French Guiana, an increase in the incidence rate was observed this week (496, +18%).

Hospital admissions continue to decline

At the hospital level, the decline in new admissions continued, with 2,527 new hospitalizations (-28%) and 636 new admissions to intensive care (-32%). As of September 21, there were 8,655 infected patients currently hospitalized, including 1,757 in intensive care. Sentinel surveillance of severe cases hospitalized in critical care units resumed in all regions on August 31, 2021. Patients were younger compared to the first half of 2021, with similar comorbidities. In terms of vaccination status, preliminary (unconsolidated) data indicate that nearly three-quarters of cases were unvaccinated in mainland France.

There were 458 hospital deaths nationwide, a 21% decrease compared to week 36.

Vaccination coverage among healthcare workers continues to rise

On September 21, the estimated vaccination coverage in France based on Vaccin Covid was 74.5% for at least one dose and 71.9% for full vaccination. 93.0% of residents in nursing homes (EHPADs) or long-term care units (USLDs) had received at least one dose of the vaccine, and 90.8% were fully vaccinated.

Among healthcare professionals, vaccination coverage continues to rise. The data was updated thanks in particular to a study conducted in healthcare facilities and medical-social institutions. 92.0% of professionals working in healthcare facilities had received at least one dose, as well as 96.6% of professionals working in long-term care facilities for the elderly (Ehpad), 94.7% working in other residential facilities for the elderly (excluding Ehpad), 94.2% working in residential facilities for people with disabilities (Ehph), and 95.5% of private-practice healthcare providers.

• For more information: Le Point on “COVID-19 Vaccination Coverage Among Healthcare Professionals”