No immediate measures despite increased coronavirus circulation
There will be no additional measures in Belgium to reduce the number of coronavirus infections for the time being, the department of Health reported on Tuesday. However, high loads of Covid-19 are circulating in wastewater, according to national health institute Sciensano.
Through wastewater monitoring, Sciensano warns of high circulation of the coronavirus in 22 of 41 wastewater treatment plants. A rapid increase was observed for nine plants based on a 13 December measurement. The number of areas with an increasing trend did fall slightly compared to the previous week. In 19 areas, the situation is "alarming". Five installations did not take samples last week.
As recently as late November, code yellow was declared for respiratory infections. That means there is an increase in the circulation of respiratory diseases, but the pressure on the healthcare system remains under control.
On Thursday, experts from the Risk Assessment Group will meet again to discuss possible new measures. Face masks could then be reintroduced in hospitals, for example.
The Federal Public Service Health stresses that it is essential to follow known hygiene measures to prevent further spread. "Wash your hands regularly with soap and water, ventilate indoor spaces and stay at home if you are ill," it said. Vaccination against Covid-19 and influenza is also recommended, especially for high-risk groups.
Frank Vandenbroucke © BELGA PHOTO BENOIT DOPPAGNE
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