A very low incidence rate

In week 31 (July 31–August 6, 2023), an increase in the number of emergency room visits for COVID-19 across all age groups was observed in France (928 in W31 vs. 712 in W30), though numbers remain low. The proportion of hospitalizations following visits remains stable. SOS Médecins
medical procedures for suspected COVID-19 also increased, with 1,512 procedures in week 31 vs. 822 in week 30.
It is important to note that case numbers remain low regarding syndromic data.

For more information:

• OSCOUR National Information Bulletin of August 8, 2023

• SOS Médecins National Information Bulletin of August 7, 2023

The incidence^* of COVID-19 in France shows a 24.6% increase compared to Week 30, rising from 6.2 to 7.7 per 100,000 inhabitants, remaining at very low levels. The incidence rate is rising across all age groups, but is most pronounced among those aged 40–49 (+38.8% compared to week 30).

The current situation requires continued vigilance, and the surveillance systems in place allow us to assess its evolution. Given the low incidence levels currently observed, it is not unusual to see fluctuations or localized outbreaks of active transmission, which will not necessarily result in major waves. It remains important, however, to continue monitoring SARS-CoV-2 using existing systems, particularly syndromic surveillance (SOS Médecins and OSCOUR networks), surveillance in acute care hospitals, and genomic surveillance.

A limited increase confined to the southwest

Most of the positive cases reported during week 31 came from five regions: Nouvelle-Aquitaine (n=789), Occitanie (n=730), Île-de-France (n=689), Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur (n=638), and Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes (n=541).

Nevertheless, available data suggest that the national increase is primarily driven by the Nouvelle Aquitaine region, particularly departments 40 (Landes) and 64 (Pyrénées-Atlantiques): laboratory data and data from the SOS Médecins and OSCOUR networks are consistent in this regard. This localized increase across the country can be explained primarily by the large gathering that took place in Bayonne (Fêtes de Bayonne, July 26–30), and other similar local summer festivals where conditions in terms of population density may have facilitated transmission.

While a more limited increase in the number of cases is observed across all regions, most cases have been reported in heavily visited vacation areas, highlighting the additional role of other types of gatherings during the vacation period. This increase could therefore continue or fluctuate as the school year begins.

Santé publique France continues to monitor the epidemic through existing systems that allow for an assessment of its progression.

More information:

• COVID-19 surveillance as of July 1, 2023.

• View regional epidemiological updates.

Adherence to preventive measures remains necessary

Adherence to preventive measures is still required. Isolation in the event of a positive COVID-19 test and/or symptoms, and continued adherence to preventive measures: wearing a mask, particularly in the presence of older adults or in crowded indoor spaces (including public transportation) or during large gatherings, as well as handwashing and ventilating enclosed spaces.

COVID-19 vaccination, particularly for at-risk individuals, remains important, and the flu and COVID-19 vaccination campaign launched this fall will be the subject of an upcoming announcement.