The epidemic is not yet here, but it is fast approaching. Cases of gastroenteritis are increasing throughout the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, says the Sentinelles network in his bulletin of Thursday January 2. According to the latest data, the incidence rate is 296 cases of acute diarrhea per 100,000 people in the region. All departments are affected.
The activity is qualified as “strong” through the physician network, while the incidence rate is 289 cases per 100,000 population nationwide. The most affected regions are Grand-Est, Occitanie and Nouvelle-Aquitaine. The number of cases seen in consultation is also in “huge increase” in the country.
“Every year we have winter epidemics. We are on time, but it starts a little faster than usual”, says Odile Launay, infectious disease specialist at Cochin hospital, USAinformations. The doctor nuances however, specifying that the cases are not for the moment “not particularly serious” and emergencies not overloaded.
As for the evolution of the incidence of the disease, it is “impossible to predict”. It is only possible to rely on data from previous years to conjecture its progression. Before entering the epidemic phase, it is advisable to watch very young children in whom the disease can be serious. “We should worry about the very young if the diarrhea persists and there is food intolerance”, adds Odile Launay.
–
