The resurgence of Covid-19 cases in the Île-de-France region, as reported by Santé publique France, has reached almost 30% in one week, prompting a possible readjustment of sanitary measures. The steady increase in positive cases since the start of the school year is noteworthy. This alarming rise has led to the hospitalization ofone in three people testing positive after a visit to the emergency department. For the time being, no specific guidelines have been established for the isolation of individuals testing positive.
29% increase in cases in one week
The question of wearing masks has resurfaced with the return of COVID-19 this semester. The 29% increase in cases confirmed by Santé publique France reflects a situation which, although under control, could worsen with the drop in temperatures and the emergence of new variants. The XBB 1.5 variant, the most transmissible since Omicron, remains under surveillance.
The vaccination campaign is being stepped up from October 2, 2023 for people at risk. Only vulnerable populations and those in regular contact with immunocompromised people are encouraged to get vaccinated without delay.
No isolation protocol despite the upsurge
Individuals who test positive are often unsure of what to do with their loved ones, at work or when sending their children to school. Since last winter, isolation orders have been lifted. There is no longer any obligation to take sick leave in the event of a positive test, and the choice of teleworking or face-to-face work is left to the discretion of the attending physician. In the workplace, barrier measures remain essential, as do regular hand-washing and avoiding public transport.
For contact cases, isolation is no longer mandatory, but wearing a mask and rapid screening in the presence of symptoms are recommended. In schools, the absence of specific protocols means that students testing positive can still attend classes. However, it is advisable not to send your child to school if he or she tests positive, especially without a mask, to prevent the virus from spreading. Pupils in the youngest sections are the most affected, which reiterates the importance of vaccination and barrier measures to ensure everyone's safety.
In this context, the reintroduction of the mask, although not yet officialized, could be a precautionary measure to stem the spread of the virus, protect the most vulnerable and avoid a new epidemic wave.
