Virological Surveillance in France: The Impact of COVID-19 and Future Outlook

Epidemiological surveillance is essential for guiding policymakers toward management measures tailored to the various contexts of a health crisis. In the context of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, an epidemiological surveillance system was established, which helped guide the "test, alert, protect" strategy aimed at curbing the spread of the virus. A population screening information system (SI-DEP) was rapidly implemented on May 13, 2020, two months after tests became available in March 2020, to systematically and automatically receive all test results (PCR, antigen) performed daily by all public and private laboratories, as well as by authorized healthcare professionals (mainland France and overseas departments). This article describes the evolution of virological surveillance and the implementation of SI-DEP during the health crisis, from the collaborative planning phases among the various stakeholders involved, through the development of the information system and its evolution, to the operation and dissemination of data and indicators produced notably by Santé publique France. Throughout the crisis period, several challenges were encountered on scientific, technical, and regulatory fronts, as well as significant challenges related to communication and partnerships with all stakeholders. Strong capabilities for adaptation, cohesion, and resilience were necessary to ensure the fulfillment of all missions throughout this period. SI-DEP demonstrated the importance of having timely access to laboratory data to ensure effective epidemiological surveillance, broken down to the finest territorial levels.

Author(s): Durand Julien, Fayad Myriam, Feri Adeline, Truong Émilie, Taisne Benjamin, Amy Étienne, Mati Philippe, Reibel Laura, Pascal Yves, Lerpinière Achille, Beaufret Raphaël, Gauthier Bruno, Coignard Catherine, Ebel Anne, Roquebert Bénédicte, Haïm-Boukobza Stéphanie, Perez Éric, Baldé Shérif, Bernillon Pascale, Pelat Camille, Chatignoux Edouard, Bonaldi Christophe, Spaccaferri Guillaume, Arfaoui Adel, Che Didier, Caserio-Schönemann Céline, Coignard Bruno, Le Strat Yann

Publishing year: 2024

Pages: 440-449

Weekly Epidemiological Bulletin, 2024, n° 20-21, p. 440-449

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