An average of 192.7 people per day tested positive for the new coronavirus (Covid-19) in Belgium during the past week, according to figures by Sciensano on Thursday.
The trend of new infections per day has risen by 91% over the 7-day period from 13 to 19 July, meaning the average of new cases per day is almost twice as high as the average last week.
On Monday, according to Sciensano's most recent figures, 370 new infections were recorded in a single day, and that number could still go up, as it sometimes takes a few days for the authorities to verify infections.
The total number of confirmed cases in Belgium, since the beginning of the pandemic, is 64,627. The total reflects all people in Belgium who have been infected, and includes confirmed active cases as well as patients who have since recovered, or died from the consequences of the virus.
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From 12 to 19 July, the authorities recorded an average of 13.4 new hospital admissions per day, which is an increase of 45% compared to the daily average in the week before.
In total, 191 patients are admitted to hospital, compared to 150 a week ago. Of those patients, 41 are in the intensive care unit, up from 27 last week.
An average number of 2.6 deaths occurred per day over the 7-day period from 13 to 19 July. The trend also increased, compared to the daily average of 2.2 deaths in the week before.
The total number of deaths in Belgium since the beginning of the pandemic is currently 9,808.
Sciensano’s reports now focus on the evolution of the trends, and no longer on the daily figures. “This makes it possible to clearly see the trends, regardless of fluctuations in the daily figures,” the centre added.
“The virus has not disappeared from our country,” said the health authorities. “So keep applying the tips to protect yourself and your family,” they added.
Maïthé Chini
The Brussels Times
