Key Points

In Week 21, the epidemic situation continued to improve, with virological and hospital indicators still declining nationwide. However, the circulation of SARS-CoV-2 was decreasing at a slower rate compared to previous weeks.

• Mainland France:

  • Less pronounced decline in incidence rates, with a trend toward stabilization in some regions

  • Decrease in hospitalization rates across all regions

• Overseas territories:

  • Very high virological indicators, still rising in Martinique

Variants

• Omicron BA.2 sublineage dominant: 94% of interpretable sequences from the Flash S20 survey (May 16)

• Increased presence of the L452 mutation in screening (12% in S21), linked to the rise of certain Omicron sublineages, including BA.4 and BA.5

• Detection of BA.4 and BA.5 on the rise in recent Flash surveys

Prevention

• Vaccination as of May 30, 2022 (Covid Vaccine data):

  • Vaccination coverage for the booster dose was 74.3% among those aged 18 and older (84.2% among those aged 65 and older).

  • Only 32.4% of those aged 60–79 and 27.5% of those aged 80 and older eligible for the second booster dose have actually received it.

• The continued circulation of SARS-CoV-2 necessitates continued adherence to combined measures, particularly to protect the most vulnerable populations:

  • It remains necessary to self-isolate if you have symptoms or test positive for COVID-19.

  • It is essential to continue practicing individual preventive measures, including wearing a mask (in the presence of vulnerable individuals and in crowded indoor spaces or at large gatherings), handwashing, and frequently ventilating enclosed spaces.

Learn more

• See our report on the COVID-19 pandemic

• Visit our page on variants

• View all national epidemiological updates