The alert level for respiratory infections rises to code orange in Belgium

It is also possible to get vaccinated, if you have not already done so, especially in the following cases: you are vulnerable, if you are caring for a vulnerable person, if you are pregnant or planning to be pregnant, or if you work in the healthcare industry.

Here is the main advice issued by the Risk Management Group:

• Wash your hands regularly with soap and water or use hand sanitizer.
• Ventilate interior spaces optimally and regularly.
• If you sneeze or cough, use a single-use tissue or sneeze into your elbow, and wash your hands.
• Stay home if you are sick and avoid contact with others.
• When you are no longer acutely ill and symptoms subside: wear a mask for at least 5 days after the onset of symptoms when in contact with other people and keep your distance, especially from vulnerable people and the nursing staff.
• If you are a vulnerable person, wear a mask in crowded places.

You are vulnerable if:

• you are over 65 years old
• you have chronic lung, heart, liver or kidney disease, metabolic diseases (including diabetes), or neuromuscular diseases;
• you have an immune disorder;
• you are pregnant.

Infants are also vulnerable

For children under 18, only the first four recommendations apply, meaning they are not required to wear masks. However, we ask them and their parents to remain aware of the risk of infection in busy places, particularly when in contact with vulnerable people.