Key Points

In Week 13 (March 29–April 4, 2021), epidemiological indicators of SARS-CoV-2 circulation in Île-de-France remained at a very high level, although some of these indicators had stabilized. Hospital pressure, which remained very high in the region, showed no signs of easing at this stage.

The incidence rate remained relatively stable in Week 13 despite the increase in testing rates. The positivity rate, meanwhile, showed a decline at both the regional and departmental levels.

Among those aged 65–74, the incidence rate decreased, likely due in part to the lower testing rate. In other age groups, the incidence rate stabilized despite an increase in the testing rate, with the exception of those aged 75 and older, among whom the rate also remained stable. The 75+ age group was the only age group where the positivity rate did not decrease; it even increased slightly. In this context, an increase in the incidence rate in this age group is possible in the coming period.

In S13, the strain on the hospital system, which had already been very high for several weeks in Île-de-France, showed no signs of easing. The number of hospitalized COVID-19 patients remained very high, and the number of admissions to intensive care—already exceeding the peak levels of the second wave—continued to rise, although the rate of increase appeared to be slowing. The number of COVID-19-related deaths in hospitals was rising, and excess all-cause mortality was already evident in Île-de-France in Week 12.

At the same time, COVID-19 vaccination continued to progress in S13 in Île-de-France. As of April 6, 2021, single-dose vaccination coverage stood at 12.1% in the general population of all ages and at 62.3% among the oldest age group (75 years and older).

Despite the decline in the positivity rate and the stabilization of certain epidemiological indicators—which could signal a slowdown in transmission—viral circulation remained high in Île-de-France. Limiting contacts, particularly during family gatherings, consistently practicing preventive measures, and adhering to the recently strengthened public health measures are essential for everyone, including those who have been vaccinated.