In week 33 (August 15–21), the spread of SARS-CoV-2 continued to slow, though at a less pronounced rate than in previous weeks, with the incidence rate remaining above 200 per 100,000. The decline in the incidence rate was smaller across all age groups, and a trend toward stabilization was observed in certain regions. At the same time, the number of hospital admissions continued to decrease. In the overseas territories, virological indicators remained very high and continued to rise in Réunion.

Omicron is circulating almost exclusively in France, and its BA.5 sublineage is currently ubiquitous. In mainland France, BA.5 (all sublineages combined) accounted for 94% of interpretable sequences during the Flash S32 survey (08/08). The proportion of BA.4 (including all sublineages) in Flash surveys is decreasing, with 5% of interpretable sequences in Flash S32 compared to 6% in S31. The detection of L452 mutations by screening tests remains stable at high levels (93% in S33 vs. 92% in S32), consistent with the circulation of BA.5. Additional information is available in the variant risk analysis dated August 10, 2022.

As of August 22, vaccination coverage stood at 85.3% among those aged 65 and older for the booster dose. Only 32.6% of those aged 60–79 and 45.7% of those aged 80 and older had received their second booster dose among eligible individuals (based on the time since the last injection). It is essential to intensify vaccination efforts to improve vaccination coverage, which remains insufficient, particularly in the French overseas departments and regions (DROM) and among older adults.

Given the ongoing circulation of SARS-CoV-2 and the summer vacation period, it is necessary to follow preventive measures to protect the most vulnerable. It also remains essential to follow the recommended guidelines in the event of symptoms, a positive test result, or exposure to a confirmed case.