In week 32 (August 8–14), the decline in SARS-CoV-2 transmission continued, with an improvement in epidemiological indicators across all metropolitan regions. The incidence rate was declining across all age groups, and hospitalization rates continued to decrease nationwide. In the overseas territories, the incidence rate decreased in all regions except Réunion, where it remained high and was rising, with a positivity rate of 38.0%.

Omicron is circulating almost exclusively in France, and its BA.5 sublineage is currently ubiquitous. In metropolitan France, BA.5 (all sublineages combined) accounted for 93% of interpretable sequences in the Flash S31 survey of August 1 (stable compared to S31). The proportion of BA.4 (including all its sublineages) in the Flash surveys remains stable, accounting for 7% of interpretable sequences in Flash S31. The detection of L452 mutations by screening tests has stabilized at high levels (92% in S32 vs. 91% in S31), in line with the circulation of BA.5. Additional information is available in the variant risk analysis dated August 10, 2022.

As of August 15, only 32.5% of those aged 60–79 and 45.2% of those aged 80 and older, as well as 49.8% of nursing home residents, had received their second booster dose among eligible individuals (based on the time since the last injection). Vaccination efforts must therefore be stepped up to improve vaccination coverage, which remains insufficient, particularly in the overseas departments and regions (DROM) and among older populations.

Given the ongoing circulation of SARS-CoV-2 and summer vacation activities, it remains necessary to follow preventive measures to maintain the current positive trend. In the event of symptoms, a positive test result, or exposure to a confirmed case, it is also essential to follow the recommended guidelines.

For more information on COVID-19, surveillance systems, and vaccination, consult the Santé Publique France report and the Vaccination Info Service website. For more information on regional data, consult the regional epidemiological reports. Find all data freely available on Géodes.