Belgium Recommends Population to Wear Masks Again in Crowded Places: 'Code Orange'

belgium - Belgium issues official recommendation to wear masks due to high flu cases as part of the new Winterplan.

Belgium has issued an official recommendation for the population to wear masks again, marking the first time since the end of the coronavirus pandemic. This recommendation is a result of 'code orange' in the new Winterplan due to the high number of flu cases.

'Wear a mask in crowded places and when in contact with healthcare providers,' reads the official recommendation that is now in effect. In late October 2024, all ministers of health in Belgium approved the new 'winter plan for air infections,' where the recommendation is part of code orange, which came into effect on Thursday.

It is the first time since the end of the coronavirus pandemic that the government has given an official advice on masks. Last year, a 'code orange' was also in effect as part of the Winterplan throughout February, but there were no specific recommendations attached to it at that time.

'These remain recommendations, not obligations,' says virologist Steven Van Gucht. 'Just like in code yellow, good ventilation and staying at home when sick are important points of focus. In addition, wearing masks, especially in healthcare settings such as waiting rooms and emergency departments, as well as in crowded places like public transport, helps to minimize the spread.'

This code orange officially started on Thursday due to the high number of flu infections. The number of hospitalizations due to severe respiratory infections has been increasing and is currently above last winter's levels. However, the peak in hospitalizations occurred in February back then.

There are currently many consultations with GPs due to the flu. In some regions, this has led to waiting times to schedule an appointment. Emergency departments in various hospitals are also very busy.

'We actually expect such a short period of code orange every winter season,' says Van Gucht. 'Red will be exceptional, for example, if flu and COVID strike simultaneously.'