Key Points

COVID-19

In Week 17, a decline in epidemiological indicators was observed in Normandy, but the epidemic remained at a high level, higher than that observed one week before the lifting of the second lockdown. The slowdown in viral circulation was confirmed with an effective reproduction number (Rt) significantly below 1.

While admissions to critical care units were also declining, pressure on hospitals remained high. Vaccination coverage among fully vaccinated individuals was increasing, but reached only 11.4% of the population of Normandy (10.9% in France). In this context, high adherence to individual preventive measures and the rapid progress of vaccination remain essential to enable an imminent easing of collective measures, maintain the downward trend observed, and preserve hospital capacity.

Finally, it remains essential that anyone experiencing symptoms suggestive of COVID-19 immediately self-isolate and get tested as soon as possible.

Mortality

Since Week 15, Normandy has shown moderate excess mortality.

Bronchiolitis

End of the epidemic. In week 17, bronchiolitis activity is decreasing at SOS-Médecins and in emergency departments. The positivity rate is decreasing: 9 RSV cases were isolated by the Rouen University Hospital laboratory and 2 by the Caen University Hospital laboratory.

Acute gastroenteritis

In week 17, SOS-Médecins activity (all ages) and emergency department visits increased slightly. The incidence of acute diarrhea decreased in week 17.