Key Points

The spread of the virus responsible for COVID-19 has intensified, and the increase continues in the initially affected areas, Cayenne Island and Savanes, but an increase is also beginning in the west.

The regional incidence stands at 141 cases per 100,000 inhabitants (compared to 84 last week), representing a 68% increase. The positivity rate, meanwhile, has doubled in one week.

The onset of this third wave is linked to the increased circulation of the V3 20J/501Y.V3 variant (Brazil), which has become the dominant strain among those circulating in French Guiana (84%). The original strain now accounts for only a small proportion of confirmed cases in French Guiana.

The impact on hospitalization rates is beginning to be observed, with an increase in hospitalizations, particularly at the CHC, reflecting the intensification of transmission along the coast over the past several weeks.

Admissions to intensive care are slightly up, with 5 admissions in week 14.

Syndromic surveillance indicators (general practice visits and emergency department visits) have also increased, particularly at the CHC for emergency department visits.