Key Points

The upward trend continues, with another sharp increase (+56%) in the number of new confirmed COVID-19 cases last week compared to the previous week. An average of 56 cases were confirmed each day, and the weekly incidence rate rose further, reaching 135 cases per 100,000 residents. The weekly testing rate also continues to rise, with 1,850 tests per 100,000 inhabitants, reflecting the increased circulation of the virus, while the positivity rate is also rising.

As of December 15, 2020, the effective reproduction number (R_eff) is estimated at 1.38 [1.24–1.52], as previously reported. The doubling time for the number of cases is 14.6 days, indicating a slower rate of spread than that observed in June. New hospitalizations are stable compared to the previous week, but 4 admissions to intensive care were recorded this week. No deaths have been reported.

The highest incidence rates are in the metropolitan areas of Cayenne (Cayenne Island) and Kourou-Macouria. In the rest of the territory, incidence rates remain lower. However, the western coast shows a slight upward trend. Early indicators of healthcare utilization are at a low level but rising: last week, the number of emergency room visits for suspected COVID-19 and the number of acute respiratory infections seen in private practice were on the rise. Three clusters have been reported, including two in the workplace.