Covid-19: Belgium tightens restrictions to cope with the arrival of a 3rd wave

Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo during his press conference in Brussels on March 19, 2021. AP - Philip Reynaers

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The Belgian authorities met this Friday, March 19 in Brussels to consider the response to be adopted in the face of the arrival of the third wave, now in the process of materializing in Belgium.

As in other European countries, the Belgians have decided to toughen restrictive measures and maintain the curfew and border closures.

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With our correspondent in Brussels,

Pierre Benazet

In Belgian schools, from March 24 at the latest, wearing a mask will become compulsory from the fifth year of primary school, two years earlier than what was the case for the moment.

From April 3, on tourist trains, people over the age of twelve will have to occupy window seats.

This seemingly headless measure is intended to stem one-day tourism to the seaside where Belgians intend to rush over the Easter holidays as

the borders remain closed

.

The infection rate has increased by a third in Belgium in one week, causing great concern from the authorities.

“ 

Our behavior, in the coming weeks, will be the key to breaking the chains of contamination.

Avoid close contact as much as possible.

If you want to see someone do it outside, keep your distance and be careful and that way you keep the perspective,

 ”said Belgian Federal Prime Minister Alexander De Croo.

► To read also: Covid-19 in Belgium: the measures taken against the decried demonstrations

But in reality the prospects are fading and the promises of flexibility will not be kept: no cultural or religious outdoor activities, no youth camps and no amusement parks.

Instead, the Belgian authorities are making new promises by announcing a return to 100% school attendance for all secondary school students after the Easter holidays in a month and the reopening of cafes and restaurants on May 1.

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• Belgium

• Coronavirus

• Health and medicine