Key Points

COVID-19

• In Week 01, indicators tracking the Covid-19 epidemic showed an increase in SARS-CoV-2 transmission in Normandy, following the festive gatherings at the end of the year. Furthermore, the emergence of new variants of the virus within the country could lead to an acceleration of the epidemic and requires increased vigilance. As of January 12, a case carrying the new variant circulating in the United Kingdom was identified in Normandy.

• Testing rates rose again after a decline observed in week 53. The 7-day incidence rate was increasing, particularly among those aged 20–29. The effective reproduction number (which reflects the speed at which the virus spreads) was significantly higher than in week 53.

• In hospitals, the weekly hospitalization rate increased in Seine-Maritime but remained stable in other departments. The rate of emergency room visits for suspected COVID-19 was also rising in Seine-Maritime.

• Prevention measures and social distancing remain the primary means of curbing the spread of the SARS-CoV-2 virus and reducing its impact on the healthcare system and mortality rates. The vaccination campaign has intensified since January 4, 2021. It initially targets residents of long-term care facilities and healthcare professionals. According to data provided by the Normandy Regional Health Agency, 15,645 people had been vaccinated against COVID-19 in Normandy as of January 12, 2021.

Mortality

The age-standardized all-cause mortality rate in the Normandy region is no longer elevated in week 51 (pending finalization). It had been moderately elevated since week 43 (and highly elevated in week 49). The number of deaths among patients hospitalized for COVID-19 decreased in week 1 compared to the previous week.

Bronchiolitis and Gastroenteritis

In week 1, bronchiolitis activity remains low and below previous years’ levels. No new RSV strains were isolated from hospitalized patients by laboratories at Normandy university hospitals. Current respiratory infections are primarily caused by rhinoviruses. Gastroenteritis activity is stable and remains at a low level in week 1.