News: Increase in Emergency Department Visits for ENT Infections in Réunion

Since week 34, an increase in visits for ENT infections has been observed in Réunion’s emergency departments (Figure 1). In weeks 36 and 37, the number of visits for these conditions exceeded seasonal averages. In week 37 (September 9–15), 133 visits for ENT infections were recorded, accounting for 4% of emergency department activity. Of these visits, 77% involved children under 5 years of age. This increase was observed across all emergency departments on the island, but was more pronounced at the CHU – South Campus and at CH Gabriel Martin. In weeks 36 and 37, these ENT infections were predominantly nasopharyngitis (34%) and laryngitis (26%). Other conditions included otitis (8%), pharyngitis (7%), and various other ENT infections. A few sentinel physicians were interviewed and confirmed the increase in consultations for these conditions in private practice. The situation will be closely monitored in the coming weeks.