Key Points

COVID-19

In Week 02, several indicators remained stable compared to the previous week in the Normandy region.

Testing rates, as well as incidence and positivity rates, remained stable compared to the previous week, as did the effective reproduction number (which reflects the rate of spread), though it remains above 1.

In hospitals, the weekly hospitalization rate is similar to the previous week.

These trends should be interpreted with caution and do not rule out a resurgence of the epidemic in the coming weeks. 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 19, five cases carrying the new variant circulating in the United Kingdom have been identified in Normandy. 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 continues for people over 75, vulnerable individuals, and healthcare workers.

Bronchiolitis

Non-epidemic phase. There is stability in emergency department visits for bronchiolitis and a slight increase in the number of SOS Médecins calls. Activity related to bronchiolitis is lower than in previous years. Four new RSV cases were isolated in week 2 (data from the Caen and Rouen University Hospitals). The majority of isolated viruses are rhinoviruses.

Gastroenteritis

SOS Médecins activity for gastroenteritis is increasing, while emergency department activity remains stable. Both are at low levels, lower than those observed in previous seasons. The incidence of acute diarrhea estimated by the Sentinelles network is increasing but remains below the level of the previous year.