Key Points

• As of July 30, 2020, the coronavirus pandemic continues to spread, and a resurgence of cases is being observed in European countries, including France. In the Indian Ocean, although the epidemic is declining in Mayotte, the virus continues to circulate at a high level and the number of cases continues to rise in Madagascar (more than 10,300 confirmed cases).

• In France, during week 30, the data reflect a real increase in incidence, particularly of symptomatic cases, which cannot be explained solely by the increased testing efforts conducted as part of cluster investigations and the contact tracing of confirmed cases

• As of July 30, 2020, 7 departments were classified as having moderate vulnerability (Gironde, Haute-Garonne, Haute-Savoie, Ille-et-Vilaine, Nord, Val d’Oise, and Vosges) and 3 as having high vulnerability (Mayenne, Mayotte, and French Guiana); The vulnerability level reflects viral circulation and its impact on public health.

• In Réunion, the number of imported and locally transmitted cases decreased in week 30. At the same time, the identification of cluster cases (secondary to the arrival of travelers) indicates localized viral circulation on the island. However, Réunion remains at a limited vulnerability level. The testing rate continues to rise, linked to the increase in the number of travelers getting tested on day 7 after arrival, and to a lesser extent to the organization of community-based testing.

• It remains important to follow protective measures, keeping in mind that the virus can be transmitted by people who do not exhibit symptoms. Wearing a mask remains crucial to prevent transmission of the virus via droplets and airborne routes, a mode of transmission that cannot be ruled out based on current knowledge.

• Any healthcare professional can report chains of transmission or suspected clusters to the ARS to quickly identify any local transmission: ars-reunion-signal@ars.sante.fr