Key Points

In Week 41, virological indicators began to rise again after 7 weeks of decline followed by a week of stability. Circulation of the SARS-CoV-2 virus remained high in the region compared to other metropolitan areas. The number of new hospitalizations stabilized after 8 weeks of decline. The resumption of the upward trend in incidence, against the backdrop of falling temperatures, the widespread circulation of the Delta variant, declining public adherence to preventive measures, still-incomplete vaccination coverage—whose progress is slowing each week—and possible waning immunity over time calls for vigilant monitoring of all epidemiological indicators in the coming weeks.

In Île-de-France, the regional incidence rate for week 41 was 71 cases per 100,000 inhabitants and increased compared to week 40. The testing rate decreased at the regional level, reflecting a decrease among those aged 15 to 44. The positivity rate increased slightly, due to an increase among those aged 15 to 44.

At the hospital level, the number of new hospitalizations of COVID-19 patients stabilized after eight consecutive weeks of declines. The number of new admissions to intensive care continued to decline. The number of reported deaths in hospitals showed an increase.

In Week 41, 75.0% of the Île-de-France population of all ages had received at least one dose of the vaccine, and 72.2% were fully vaccinated. However, the rate of increase in vaccination coverage with at least one dose remained low.

Against the backdrop of schools and workplaces reopening, and viral circulation that remains high and is on the rise, vaccinating all eligible individuals remains essential and must be combined with strict adherence to other preventive measures, particularly the observance of protective measures, limiting high-risk contacts, and self-isolation in the event of symptoms, a confirmed infection, or contact with a confirmed case. It is the combination of various individual and collective measures that helps limit the transmission of SARS-CoV-2 and can be decisive in reducing viral circulation and preventing severe cases and further strain on hospitals.