While almost everywhere incidence rates are falling in France, the Landes department “is faced with a special situation”, explains ARS Nouvelle-Aquitaine in a press release. The circulation of the delta variant (ex-Indian variant) is very active there. The incidence rate increased by + 9.4%, from 46.6 per 100,000 in week 23 to 51 per 100,000 in week 24) while the positivity rate increased very slightly (+ 0.2 pts) with a screening rate that remains stable and at a high level.
A cluster that raises the numbers
The incidence rate has increased sharply among those aged 75 and over, (46.7 / 100,000 inhabitants against 8.1 / 100,000 inhabitants in one week and 8.1 / 100,000 against 0.5 / 100,000), with a number of cases which remains low, with around twenty positive people. “The figures announced at the national level were calculated on the basis of a small number of cases, which contributes to the sharp increase in the rates presented”, observes the ARS in its press release. This trend in this age group can be explained by the occurrence of a cluster in a nursing home in Pontonx, “which could alone explain the increase in incidence rates”, adds the ARS.
While 94% of the facility’s residents are vaccinated, they tested positive for the delta variant without developing a serious form. “Emergency room activity for suspected Covid-19 remains low and the number of ongoing clusters remains low and has no impact on hospitalizations,” assures the ARS. According to the Minister of Health, visiting the CPAM: “Obviously, the virus entered the nursing home by a caregiver who was not vaccinated. “
The incidence rate is highest among those under 15 (103.4 / 100,000), with a high and stable screening rate, given that this age group develops few serious forms. Many actions are being stepped up in the Landes, in particular around vaccination, which protects against serious forms of Covid-19.
Prime Minister Jean Castex and the Minister of Health are visiting the Landes on Thursday to promote vaccination.