Summary: Low and stable viral circulation

What is already known about the situation in Martinique?

Over the past few weeks, the gradual decline in epidemic surveillance indicators has shown that the epidemic is very low.

What is new in this Update for the region?

Virological surveillance relies on the SI-DEP system (screening information system), which has been operational since May 13, 2020, and has been gradually ramped up. This new surveillance system aims to comprehensively track all patients tested in France in private and hospital laboratories. Currently, the data transmitted pertains to RT-PCR tests performed. Since the lifting of the lockdown, the ARS, in collaboration with the regional unit of Santé publique France and local partners, has been investigating clusters (or transmission hotspots, episodes of clustered cases). Contact tracing and testing of contacts help control these clusters. To date, no clusters have been reported in our department.

What are the public health implications in the region?

The new organizational structure for epidemic control, implemented since the lifting of lockdown, brings together several partners, including general practitioners, the Health Insurance Agency, the ARS Martinique, Santé publique France Antilles, private laboratories, and the CHUM. The goal is to minimize the emergence of new transmission chains as much as possible. Preventive measures, physical distancing, and contact tracing must be maintained to the fullest extent possible.