In week 39 (September 26–October 2), SARS-CoV-2 transmission continued to rise across mainland France, with 471 cases per 100,000 inhabitants—a 31% increase in the incidence rate. This increase affected all age groups, with the exception of those under 20, and was once again more pronounced among the elderly, particularly those aged 80 and older. New hospitalizations continued to rise, with 4,370 new hospitalizations recorded (a 25% increase) and 379 new admissions to intensive care (a 21% increase), as did the number of deaths (217, a 10% increase). In the overseas territories, the situation continued to improve across all regions.

Omicron is circulating almost exclusively in France, and its BA.5 sublineage remains ubiquitous. Thus, BA.5 (all sublineages combined) accounted for 91% of interpretable sequences in the Flash S38 survey (September 19) in metropolitan France. The BA.4 sublineage (including all sublineages) continued to circulate, accounting for 8% of interpretable sequences during Flash S38. The BA.2.75 sublineage was detected at very low levels, accounting for 0.7% of interpretable sequences in the Flash S38 survey. The detection of L452 mutations by screening tests remained stable at high levels (94% in S39 and 93% in S38), consistent with the circulation of BA.4 and BA.5 observed through sequencing. Additional information will be available in the next risk analysis to be published today on our website: Coronavirus: Circulation of SARS-CoV-2 Variants.

As of October 4, only 35.3% of those aged 60–79 and 48.8% of those aged 80 and older among eligible individuals (based on the time elapsed since their last dose) had received their second booster dose. Vaccination efforts must be stepped up, particularly through the fall booster campaign using a bivalent vaccine (against the original strain and the Omicron variant of SARS-CoV-2) for eligible individuals who have received their primary vaccination series.

Given the epidemic’s trajectory and the declining adherence to preventive measures, it is essential to reiterate the importance of protective measures (consistent mask-wearing around vulnerable individuals or in crowded indoor settings, and handwashing) to protect the most vulnerable. Adherence to other recommended measures also remains crucial: self-isolation in the event of a positive COVID-19 test, symptoms, or exposure to a confirmed case.

In addition, Santé publique France publishes surveillance data on COVID-19 cases among healthcare workers in healthcare facilities.

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, see the regional epidemiological updates. Find all the data freely available on Géodes.

• More info on mental health and available resources: https://www.psycom.org/

• If you or a loved one is having suicidal thoughts, call 3114. Professionals at the national suicide prevention hotline are available 24/7. The call is free and confidential. https://3114.fr/