Key Points

Situation in Réunion: Resurgence of COVID-19 cases, local transmission of the virus

• In Réunion, the number of locally transmitted cases rose sharply in week 33, linked to several clusters—including one that is not under control—indicating increased circulation of the virus in the population. The weekly incidence rate rose from 5 in week 32 to over 26 in week 33. This rate is higher than the national rate.

• In week 33, 91% of investigated cases were locally transmitted, whereas this percentage was much lower in previous weeks (45% in week 31 and 62% in week 32).

• The estimated reproduction number (R—the average number of people infected by a single case) between August 9 and 15, 2020, based on the number of positive SARS-CoV-2 PCR tests reported by the SI-DEP system, is 2.7, significantly higher than 1.

• Family and social gatherings (birthdays, family meals, etc.) are implicated in the clusters under investigation and should be limited or postponed to slow the spread of the virus during this high-risk period.

Test—Trace—Isolate

Performing a diagnostic SARS-CoV-2 test in the presence of suggestive clinical signs (as outlined in the HCSP advisory of April 20), even if the individual has not traveled or been in contact with an infected person, is essential for the early identification of infected individuals and the initiation of investigation, contact tracing, and subsequent protective measures (isolation of infected individuals, 14-day quarantine of contacts, etc.).