Key Points

COVID-19

In the Pays de la Loire region, an increase in all epidemiological indicators continues to be observed in Week 44, linked to a sharp acceleration in the spread of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. In terms of virological indicators, week S44 saw new record highs for the testing rate (2,077 people tested per 100,000 inhabitants), the incidence rate (350 positive cases per 100,000 inhabitants), and the positivity rate (16.8%). All age groups show high indicators that are rising sharply, including among those most at risk (age 65 and older).
The weekly number of reported clusters rose sharply in Week 44, with 70 clusters reported (compared to 50 in Week 43). These reports primarily involved nursing homes for dependent elderly individuals (Ehpad), healthcare facilities, and workplaces (companies).
SOS Médecins calls for suspected Covid-19 remained stable in Week 44 compared to Week 43. A marked increase in emergency room visits for suspected Covid-19 was observed in Week 44 for all age groups except those under 15. Similarly, a sharp increase in reports from ESMS/Ehpad facilities has been noted in recent weeks, with 102 episodes reported in week 43. The number of new hospitalizations of COVID-19 patients and the number of new admissions to intensive care units for COVID-19 patients have accelerated since week 42.

At the departmental level, the increase in SARS-CoV-2 transmission has continued significantly across all departments. In Week 44, this was particularly pronounced in Mayenne, which saw the largest increase, and in Maine-et-Loire, where indicators remained the highest in the region. Since October 13, all departments in the region have been classified as having a high vulnerability level.

Bronchiolitis

The Pays de la Loire region is not currently experiencing an epidemic of bronchiolitis among children under two years of age. SOS Médecins calls and emergency room visits for bronchiolitis in children under 2, already at a low level, decreased last week compared to the previous week. Typically, the circulation of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), which causes bronchiolitis outbreaks, intensifies after the All Saints’ Day school break. To date, no active circulation of RSV has been observed in France or in the region.