COVID-19 Cases Rise in France with New “Frankenstein” Variant, But Experts Remain Calm in Center-Val de Loire
ORLEANS, FRANCE – A 37% increase in suspected COVID-19 cases across France between September 15th and 21st signals a resurgence of the virus as autumn arrives, according to the latest bulletin from Public Health France. While a new variant, dubbed “Frankenstein,” is circulating, health officials in the Center-Val de loire region are assuring the public that the current situation does not warrant significant alarm.
The uptick in cases is prompting a new vaccination campaign set to launch on October 14th, but experts emphasize that widespread immunity gained through prior vaccinations and infections is mitigating the risk of severe illness. This latest wave appears to be manifesting as a common cold for many, rather than a return to the acute respiratory distress seen in earlier phases of the pandemic.
Pharmacists are already observing a shift in consumer behavior. “We sell a little more masks and self-tests,” reports Matthieu Septfonds, a pharmacist. “I am often asked the question of the number of Covid cases and the answer is always the same. We always see a little more in the back-to-school period, but without any particular concern compared to this or that variant.”
Thierry Prazuck, head of the infectious disease service at the ORLEANS CHU, echoes this sentiment.”There is no more important danger,” he stated. “Simultaneously occurring as we have had vaccines, the covid and a certain immunity which is not enough to prevent this big cold. It is a new wave of colds therefore,during this season,it’s a bit normal.”
The rise in cases follows a pattern observed in previous autumns, and health authorities are closely monitoring the situation to ensure preparedness and provide updated guidance as needed. while the “Frankenstein” variant is present in the Center-val de Loire region, its impact appears to be moderate at this time.
