Key Findings

• In Lorraine, according to available data, following an increase in all-cause mortality across all age groups in week 06, the weekly number of deaths remained at a stable high level in weeks 07 and 08.

• Overall activity in emergency departments has declined in Lorraine over the past two weeks, except in the department of Meurthe-et-Moselle, where it has remained stable.

• The number of influenza diagnoses has decreased in Lorraine’s emergency departments over the past two weeks. In outpatient care, the SOS Médecins association in Meurthe-et-Moselle noted this decline as early as week 07. Thus, as at the national level, the epidemic is beginning to subside. The intensity of influenza activity observed in Lorraine is comparable to that seen during the 2012–2013 winter season.

• Data from the virology department at Nancy University Hospital indicate that primarily type A viruses have been identified. Nationally and across Europe, the majority of subtyped viruses are A(H3N2) viruses. These influenza viruses are known to cause complications in at-risk individuals

• The number of severe influenza cases hospitalized in intensive care has stabilized, with a total of 41 cases since November 2014, of which 7 have died.

• There has been a decrease in bronchiolitis activity among children under 2 years of age, according to the indicators being monitored.

• The number of cases of gastroenteritis and diarrhea fluctuates within the ranges typically observed at this time of year.