Belgium brings back face masks « Euro Weekly News

Belgium’s health authorities have issued new recommendations for the winter season.

They are urging people to wear face masks in crowded places due to the circulation of respiratory viruses like flu, COVID-19, and RSV.

Face masks on public transport

Doctor Gerlant Van Berlaer from the Public Health Ministry emphasised that while face masks are particularly important for vulnerable individuals, the general public should consider wearing them in situations such as public transport or indoor events when viruses are circulating widely.

The “Winter Plan” also encourages regular handwashing, maintaining a 1.5-metre distance from others, and ensuring proper ventilation indoors. Those who feel unwell are advised to stay home, but wearing a mask is recommended when returning to work or public spaces, especially during the first few days after symptoms subside, as people can still be contagious for up to five days.

Face masks are recommended for adults

Face mask recommendations currently apply only to adults, as there is no significant evidence that mask use among children significantly reduces transmission. However, families are encouraged to avoid visiting vulnerable people, such as grandparents, if children are sick.

In addition to mask guidance, Belgium has reintroduced a colour-coded system to monitor the severity of viral circulation. The codes range from green (low risk) to red (high risk). The recommendations vary by level: in green and yellow, sick individuals should stay home, vulnerable people should wear masks, and everyone should practice hygiene and ventilation. In orange, everyone should wear a mask in crowded places. In red, social distancing should be practised, and gatherings in crowded places should be avoided.

Currently, Belgium remains in code green, with a low circulation of viruses, although RSV infections have been rising. Despite this, the situation is less severe compared to previous years.