Evening Update Wednesday 20 October 2021

Figures have been released for hospitalizations from Covid-19 in the Var. As of yesterday, 19 October, there were 31 patients hospitalised, which is 4 less than a week previously. 19 patients were in intensive care, which is down by 2. Four people died from Covid-19 in the department's hospitals during the week.

The Provence Alpes Cote d'Azur Regional Health Agency has issued a reminder for those people who have received an injection of the Janssen Covid-19 vaccine. In order to strengthen the protection of people vaccinated with the Janssen vaccine, the Ministry of Health recommends a booster dose at least 4 weeks after the first injection. The vaccine has been used in France since the end of April and is reserved for adults aged 55 and over. The Agency said that a booster allows better efficacy against symptomatic forms linked to the Delta variant. The Agency and Assurance Maladie are inviting all people who have received a first injection with the Janssen vaccine to get a booster jab.

Shots were fired in a police chase in broad daylight in Marseille this morning. Local reports say that police chased a car which refused to stop at a check in the north-west of the city this morning. Two people were reportedly injured when the fugitive's vehicle crashed.

French Prime Minister Jean Castex has started a tour of the French regions to explain the investments in hospitals and nursing homes planned as part of the Ségur de la Santé government health initiative. He sarted the tour in Bourgogne-Franche-Comté today accompanied by Minister of Solidarity and Health, Olivier Vera