Key Points

• In week 38, virological and hospital indicators in Île-de-France continued to decline, indicating a decrease in the circulation of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. However, circulation remained high in the region. The situation requires close monitoring in light of the start of the school year, the reduction in teleworking, falling temperatures, the widespread circulation of the Delta variant, declining public adherence to preventive measures, and still-incomplete vaccination coverage, the progress of which appears to be slowing.

• In Île-de-France, the regional incidence rate for week 38 continued to decline for the sixth consecutive week, reaching 72 cases per 100,000 inhabitants. The testing rate also continued to decline in the region, reflecting a decrease among those aged 15–44, while it remained stable among those aged 45 and older and increased among children (under 15). The positivity rate decreased among children under 15 and among those aged 65–74, while it stabilized in other age groups.

• In S38, the proportion of primary care visits for “suspected COVID-19” decreased at SOS Médecins clinics and in emergency departments. At the hospital level, the number of new hospitalizations, the number of new admissions to intensive care, and the number of reported deaths in hospitals among COVID-19 patients decreased, confirming the improvement in the hospital situation.

• As of September 26, 73.7% of the Île-de-France population of all ages had received at least one vaccine dose, and 70.2% were fully vaccinated. The increase in vaccination coverage with at least one dose remained low and was declining across all age groups.

• Against a backdrop of significant viral circulation, widespread transmission of the Delta variant, and falling temperatures, vaccination of all eligible individuals—particularly those in contact with vulnerable people—must be strongly encouraged with the goal of achieving a sufficient level of herd immunity as quickly as possible and avoiding further strain on hospitals. Alongside vaccination, it is also essential to maintain a high level of adherence to preventive measures, particularly compliance with barrier measures, limiting risky contacts, and self-isolation in the event of symptoms, a confirmed infection, or contact with a confirmed case.