Increase in incidence rates across all age groups

In Week 10 (March 6–12, 2023), an increase in incidence and positivity rates was observed nationwide, although they remained at low levels. The incidence rate increased across all age groups. The incidence rate remained lowest among those under 20, but increased more markedly in this age group. The positivity rate also increased across all age groups, remaining lowest among those under 10. The testing rate stabilized in most age groups and increased slightly among those under 20.

Increase in hospital indicators

The number of emergency room visits was on the rise, as were procedures at SOS Médecins. New hospitalizations were also increasing across regions, though to a lesser extent.

Variants: the XBB recombinant is predominant

Since the emergence of Omicron in late 2021, significant and rapid genetic diversification has been observed within this variant and its successive sublineages. However, all Omicron sublineages described to date retain very similar characteristics and are therefore all included within Omicron. In mainland France, the XBB recombinant (all sublineages included) is now the predominant Omicron sublineage, accounting for 57% of interpretable sequences in the Flash S08 survey of February 20, 2023 (vs. 45% for Flash S07). The increase in XBB is driven by its sublineage XBB.1.5, which, together with its sublineages, accounted for 48% of interpretable sequences in Flash S08-2023 (vs. 36% for Flash S07). At the same time, BA.5 and its sublineages continue to decline, from 45% in Flash S07 to 33% in Flash S08-2023, with a notable decrease in BQ.1.1 (from 38% in Flash S07 to 28% in Flash S08-2023). Detection of BA.2 sublineages remains stable at 9% for Flash S07 and S08-2023. More information is available in the risk analysis related to emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants dated February 15, 2023.

Continued prevention measures are necessary

Due to insufficient booster vaccination rates and the very active circulation of respiratory viruses, increased COVID-19 and flu vaccination among targeted populations remains necessary. Adherence to preventive measures and other recommended precautions is still advised, particularly in cases of symptoms or a positive test result, as well as to protect vulnerable individuals.

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