Virologist Steven Van Gucht gave an extensive explanation about the corona figures in our country during the Consultation Committee. “The fifth wave has begun,” was his unmistakable message.
The infections are expected to increase by mid-January, to about 30,000 or even 125,000 positive tests per day, Van Gucht warns.
We are currently seeing the strongest increase in infection figures among the 20-somethings and 30-somethings, says Van Gucht. “Somewhat more disturbing is that there is also an increase in the over-65s, especially in Brussels,” it sounds. A slight increase in the number of infections can also be observed in residential care centers, although the total number of infections remains fortunately rather low.
“Unfortunately, hospital admissions have also started to increase since the end of December,” said Van Gucht. “And it looks like this will continue to grow.” The increase is strongest in Brussels (+60 percent on a weekly basis).
The peak in hospital admissions is expected at the end of January. “We expect about 400 to maybe even more than 1,000 general hospital admissions per day,” it sounds.
FFP2 mask recommended
Those who had high-risk contact may be released from quarantine earlier, provided that the general precautions are strictly observed. “Do not visit a residential care center in the 10 days after a high-risk contact, work from home as much as possible, do not go to a cafe or restaurant and preferably wear an FFP2 mouth mask,” emphasizes Steven Van Gucht.
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