Message from Stewart Cole as we approach the summer holiday period

I hope that all of you are well as we approach the summer holidays.

I know that this year has been particularly trying, and I would like to thank each and every one of you for your continued commitment to our work. I would particularly like to acknowledge the extremely positive results achieved over the past six months, in terms of both the response to the COVID-19 crisis and the remarkable progress made in many other areas (research, cooperation with Université de Paris, real estate plans, new governance in the International Network, etc.). You can be extremely proud of your efforts!

The current epidemic situation is relatively uncertain. As you know, the SARS-CoV-2 Delta variant is progressing very rapidly in France and worldwide, bringing with it the risk of a new wave in the coming weeks. This wave will most likely be different from the previous ones because of the number of people vaccinated.

Vaccination provides protection from severe forms of COVID-19 and significantly reduces transmission of the virus – estimates suggest that the contribution of non-vaccinated people to viral transmission is 12 times higher than that of vaccinated people. The efficacy of the vaccines in preventing the Delta variant in people who have received two doses has been demonstrated.

The recent modeling study coordinated by our colleague Simon Cauchemez shows that the level of resurgence will depend on vaccine coverage in the various age groups.

To date, more than 50% of people in France have received one dose. That may seem like a lot, but it's not enough.

The Institut Pasteur's history and values reflect its long-standing and active commitment to public health. As President, I can only encourage you to take the opportunity to be vaccinated. In doing so you will protect both yourselves and others. It is an important part of our duty, and will help us continue the work of our institute and bring us closer to a return to normal life. We need to set an example for others.

It is now relatively easy to book a vaccination appointment near where you live via santé.fr, doctolib.fr or vitemadose.covidtracker.fr. Please note that new slots for vaccination at the Institut Pasteur Medical Center are posted online on doctolib.fr on Mondays and Tuesdays between 2 and 3pm.

We need to remain cautious in the current context. Although the BCP Committee is not changing its measures for the time being, it will continue to monitor the situation closely over the summer and will inform you, if necessary, of any new recommendations. It is vital that we continue to comply with hygiene and distancing measures on campus as this will help protect all staff.

Many thanks again, and my very best wishes to you all for a great summer. Rest up, and don't think about the Institut Pasteur during your holidays!

I will look forward to being in touch with you again in September as we tackle new challenges together.

Kind regards,

Professor Stewart Cole
President