The figures from recent days, communicated by the Regional Health Agency (ARS) PACA and Public Health France, show that the number of diagnosed infections, as well as hospitalizations, are breaking records. Not to mention that the situation could easily worsen in the coming days.
With 460 cases per 100,000 inhabitants, the Alpes-Maritimes department (06) has the highest incidence rate in the country. It is even the only one where this figure exceeds 400. It has already reached a level significantly higher than the peak of the second wave at the beginning of November.
The situation is even more concerning at the level of the Nice Metropolis, the only one in France displaying an incidence rate over 300, and even well above: 518 cases per 100,000 inhabitants as of January 8th.
According to data from Public Health France, 594 people infected with the virus were hospitalized on Tuesday in the Alpes-Maritimes. This number is a record. What is even more worrying is the evolution of the incidence rate. There is nothing to suggest that the situation is improving; it remains concerning. A further significant escalation is expected over the next ten days before we see the initial effects of measures like the curfew and vaccination.
The question is simple: in the face of this surge in infections, will hospitals be able to cope?
