Key Points

COVID-19

In Hauts-de-France, during the period from April 5 to 11, 2021 (Week 14), viral circulation remains very intense throughout the region, even though the rate of increase appears to be slowing in some areas. The epidemic pressure on hospital services remains extremely high, at a level never before seen since the start of the pandemic in the region, but here too the rate of increase appears to be slowing. The number of deaths remains stable at a high level, with more than 250 new Covid-19 deaths in hospitals during week 14 in the region. As of April 13, 2021, more than one million people (n=1,047,164) in Hauts-de-France had received at least one dose of the Covid-19 vaccine.

Bronchiolitis

In week 14 of 2021, bronchiolitis activity remained stable in emergency departments and among SOS Médecins, but the Hauts-de-France region remains in an epidemic phase for the sixth consecutive week. The implementation of stricter restrictions, including the closure of childcare facilities since April 6, should help limit the spread of RSV and other respiratory viruses.

Influenza

Since the resumption of influenza surveillance, no influenza activity has been observed in calls to SOS Médecins or visits to emergency departments. The incidence of influenza-like illness estimated by the Sentinelles network was slightly increasing, though at a low level. An increase in reports of influenza-like illness by the Sentinelles network had already been observed in November during the region’s second wave of COVID-19.

Gastroenteritis

In week 14 of 2021, activity was decreasing in the region, likely due to the enhanced measures recommended in the fight against COVID-19 since March 20.

Mortality

A plateau of significant excess mortality from all causes has been observed since week 43 of 2020, across all age groups and among people aged 65 and older.