2024-11-14 09:23:00
Cases of bronchiolitis were rare in 2020-2021, in a context marked by multiple confinements, before rebounding strongly the following three seasons.
A lull after several years of tension. Visits to emergency rooms linked to the annual bronchiolitis epidemic, which particularly affects babies, continue to increase in France but remain for the moment at lower levels than the three previous years, indicated Wednesday, November 13 Public health France.
Ile-de-France remains the only region to suffer the epidemic in mainland France, but three others – Brittany, Hauts-de-France and now Normandy – are in pre-epidemic, according to a weekly report of respiratory infections acute.
Contrasting statistics
Regarding the week of November 4 to 10, the statistics are contrasted with a stabilization of indicators linked to bronchiolitis in community medicine – which can “be transitory following school holidays” -, and at the same time ” a continued increase in visits to emergency rooms”, but with fewer hospitalizations as a result, said the health agency.
Among children under two years old, 1,659 went to the emergency room for bronchiolitis from November 4 to 10, and 458 of them – almost all babies aged under one year – were hospitalized.
On the hospital side, the levels linked to bronchiolitis remain “lower than those observed the three years prior to the same period”, observed Public Health France.
For bronchiolitis, “the current dynamic seems similar to that observed at the same period during the seasons preceding the Covid pandemic”.
Cases of bronchiolitis were rare in 2020-2021, in a context marked by multiple confinements, before rebounding strongly the following three seasons.
Overseas, Guadeloupe and Martinique have been affected by the epidemic since the end of October, Guyana since the end of July.
Preventative treatments
This season is marked by the deployment of two preventive treatments, Beyfortus from AstraZeneca and Sanofi – an antibody given directly to babies – and Abrysvo from Pfizer – a vaccine administered before birth to pregnant women.
Beyfortus had already been the subject of an immunization campaign last year and studies agree to conclude that it limited the hospitalization of babies in France and in the few other countries where it was tested.
For the flu, cases detected in mainland France are still “sporadic”. Reunion, the only Overseas region hitherto in an epidemic phase, is emerging from it.
On the Covid side, a stabilization is taking shape, given the data from city medicine, hospitals and even wastewater, after a decline in recent weeks.
A combined vaccination campaign against flu and Covid began in mid-October for people at risk, but also for their entourage and caregivers.
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What should parents do if their child exhibits symptoms of respiratory distress during the bronchiolitis season?
**Interview with Dr. Sophie Duval, Pediatrician and Public Health Expert**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us, Dr. Duval. We’ve seen a recent upsurge in bronchiolitis cases, particularly in Ile-de-France while other regions are in pre-epidemic status. What does this mean for parents and healthcare providers?
**Dr. Duval:** Thank you for having me. The current situation indicates that while we are seeing an increase in bronchiolitis cases, it is important to note that the overall numbers are lower than the past three years. This contrast is somewhat reassuring. For parents, it’s crucial to remain vigilant, as bronchiolitis can affect infants severely. If they notice any respiratory distress in their child, seeking medical attention promptly remains vital.
**Interviewer:** Can you explain why bronchiolitis cases were rare during the COVID-19 lockdowns and what has contributed to the recent rise?
**Dr. Duval:** During the confinement periods, social distancing and strict hygiene measures significantly reduced the transmission of various respiratory viruses, including those that cause bronchiolitis. However, as restrictions eased, we witnessed a rebound in these cases. This resurgence is also influenced by seasonal factors, as bronchiolitis is commonly seen in winter months. The pattern we’re observing is not uncommon after an extended period of lower incidence.
**Interviewer:** Public Health France noted a temporary suspension of deliveries for Beyfortus, a preventive treatment for bronchiolitis, due to high demand. How will this impact treatment options for families this season?
**Dr. Duval:** The suspension of deliveries for Beyfortus is indeed concerning, especially for families with at-risk infants. While the treatment can provide some preventive benefit, it’s important to focus on supportive care and preventive measures at home—like ensuring good hand hygiene, avoiding smoking near children, and keeping them away from sick individuals. Healthcare providers are prepared to manage cases with the resources available, but families should remain aware of the signs of worsening respiratory distress.
**Interviewer:** With the current situation, what other steps can parents take to protect their children from bronchiolitis?
**Dr. Duval:** Aside from what I mentioned, parents should ensure that their infants are up to date with their vaccinations and consider restricting exposure to crowded places where respiratory viruses can spread. Additionally, it’s always a good practice to contact a healthcare professional if they have any concerns about their child’s health.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Dr. Duval, for sharing your insights. It’s essential for our audience to stay informed about bronchiolitis and its management.
**Dr. Duval:** Thank you for having me. It’s always important to keep communication open about children’s health as we navigate through these seasonal challenges.
