Abstract

Following a gradual increase in COVID-19 cases in early February, the Île-de-France region experienced rapid community spread in March, with the epidemic peaking in week 13, from March 23 to 29. The impact of the epidemic was significant in the Île-de-France region. Residents of the region accounted for approximately 40% of COVID-19 deaths recorded in France since March 1, whether in hospitals or long-term care facilities.
The lockdown was followed by a sharp decline in the need for COVID-19 care, first observed in outpatient settings during week 14, from March 30 to April 5, and then in hospitals starting April 7, a trend that continued for the five weeks following the lifting of lockdown measures. This downward trend came to a halt in week 25.
After stabilizing in weeks 25–27 at a very low level, there are signs of a resurgence in viral circulation. Only Seine-et-Marne has been spared.
Data from laboratory tests, which provide the earliest indicators, show a concerning situation in Val-d’Oise. Data on emergency room visits point in the same direction, and data from SOS Médecins—which are not broken down by department—show a resurgence of calls regarding suspected Covid-19 cases at the regional level. Hospital
activity indicators, which lag behind, show a regional resurgence, most pronounced in Yvelines, Hauts-de-Seine, and Val-de-Marne.
Compounding the situation, the virus is circulating particularly among young adults. There is concern that the spread may soon extend to older age groups and fuel the already emerging increase in new hospitalizations.
In response to this situation, the ARS is stepping up testing, the results of which now guide contact tracing. At the individual level, it is essential to continue adhering to preventive measures.