Relaxation of physical distancing measures, abandonment, a taste for vacation? The Regional Health Agency (ARS) of Nouvelle Aquitaine warns: the coronavirus "is gaining ground, in particular among 15-44 year olds" in the region, which has nearly 6 million inhabitants.
The ARS notes in a press release "a worrying development of the situation, which testifies to the active circulation of the virus" in New Aquitaine, a very touristy region, "with a jump among 15-44 year olds". The incidence rate (number of new cases per 100,000 inhabitants) in this age group “went from 1.1 at the start of June to 4.1 during the week of July 13 to 18 (compared to 2.6 among 75-year-olds). and more) ”, specifies the ARS.
Ten days ago, the ARS was already worried: New Aquitaine, the least affected region in France during confinement, suddenly experienced a "worrying development" with ten clusters against three six days earlier. It was a few days after the organization of a rave-party in Gironde, which had brought together nearly 2000 people. Friday, the health agency recorded 13 outbreaks of contamination, including eight linked to family celebrations, weddings, parties.
"We have a behavioral problem which results in the circulation of the virus, with the risk of then infecting very fragile people", explains to AFP Laurent Filleul, head of the Public Health France cell for New Aquitaine.
In one week, consultations with SOS Médecin for suspected Covid have increased by 4.2%, with the same high percentage of 15-44 year olds. “However, these people will not be tested. They want to live a normal vacation and are afraid of being confined ”in a fortnight if they are positive, notes Laurent Filleul.
In raw figures, the virus is still not very present in the region, with 60 people hospitalized, "but something is happening and we must raise awareness" the population, he insists.
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The ARS is increasing awareness campaigns and free screening operations. A precise schedule, department by department, is available on the ARS list (or here).