Key Points

• In Week 52 (December 21–27, 2020), epidemiological indicators tracking the COVID-19 outbreak in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes showed a slight decline but remained at a high level.

• Following the decline observed since mid-November, the number of hospitalized patients has stabilized at a level that remains high. As of December 30, there were 4,216 hospitalized patients, including 401 in intensive care. However, the number of new hospitalizations and new intensive care admissions decreased in Week 52 (by 14% and 9%, respectively). The weekly hospitalization rate for COVID-19 patients in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes (14.6/100,000) remains higher than the national rate (11.5/100,000).

• Virological indicators remain heavily influenced by the massive mass testing campaigns organized in the region for the general population, making it difficult to interpret them regarding the current evolution of the epidemic.

• The testing rate is, in fact, three times higher than in previous weeks, just as it was last week. Similarly, the proportion of asymptomatic individuals tested (91%) and the proportion of antigen tests (46%) remain high. However, the incidence is clearly declining, suggesting a real decrease in viral circulation in the region. With 156 cases per 100,000 inhabitants, the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region is approaching the national incidence rate (123 cases per 100,000 inhabitants).

• In week 52, indicators of healthcare utilization (SOS Médecins calls and emergency department visits) showed a slight decline. Subject to data completeness, the decline appears significant in nursing homes, with a 57% decrease in new confirmed cases among residents and staff.

• The decline in the number of new COVID-19-related deaths (-18%) continues in healthcare facilities. In week 51, a significant excess mortality from all causes at a high level was recorded in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes. This excess is, however, lower than in previous weeks. Significant excess mortality has been observed in the region for 14 consecutive weeks. At the departmental level, Allier stands out with the highest positivity, incidence, and hospitalization rates in the region. Ardèche, Puy-de-Dôme, and Haute-Savoie are seeing an increase in hospitalizations. For the other departments, epidemiological indicators are declining.