Flanders introduces monkeypox information hotline

Anyone who has questions or needs information about the monkey pox virus can now call the free information line 1700. During the Antwerp Pride, there will also be targeted awareness campaigns. This is what Flemish Minister of Welfare and Public Health Hilde Crevits (CD&V) announced on Friday. 

According to Crevits, there is currently a lot of concern about the monkey pox virus. Therefore, people can now call 1700 every weekday between 9 and 19 hours for general information about the epidemic or questions about preventive measures, testing and vaccination. This weekend, during the Antwerp Pride, there will be an exceptionally high level of telephone permanence.

In Antwerp, Sensoa employees will also answer questions of visitors and spread correct information about the virus. Tickets with a QR code will be distributed to the website with all the correct information on the virus. ​ Owners of sex establishments were also informed preventively about how to limit the risk of infection. 

Crevits emphasises that contact tracing will also be continued via the Agency for Care and Health. She calls on infected persons to share their contacts as much as possible. Those who prefer not to do so by phone can do so anonymously via www.partneralert.be. 

"There is absolutely no reason to panic at this stage, there is no risk of transmission by, for example, celebrating together. But it is important to inform people properly", emphasises the CD&V Minister. According to the latest figures from Sciensano, there are currently some 546 confirmed cases in our country, including one woman. 

(TOM)

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Flemish Minister of Public Health Hilde Crevits. © BELGA PHOTO JONAS ROOSENS