Key Developments as of October 16, 2011

• According to data collected to date by the surveillance system, 51 cases of CO poisoning occurred in mainland France between September 1 and October 16, 2011. These cases involved 215 people, 27 of whom were hospitalized.

• Weather conditions, characterized by temperatures higher than recent seasonal averages, have delayed the use of heating appliances and systems that pose a risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.

• The Nord-Pas-de-Calais region, with 13 cases of CO poisoning reported to the surveillance system since September 1, 2011, is, as in previous years, the region reporting the highest number of poisonings at the start of the heating season,

• Since September 1, 2011, two deaths have been reported to the surveillance system. The circumstances of the incidents reported at the time of notification mention, in one case, the use of a generator in a well and, in the other case, a gas stove.

• The National Institute for Prevention and Health Education (INPES) reminds the public that, before winter, it is essential to have a qualified professional perform the following: - Have boilers, water heaters, fireplace inserts, and stoves inspected and maintained; - Have flue ducts inspected and maintained (via mechanical sweeping).