A measles virus has been found in Brussels’ sewage water, according to research by KU Leuven.
Elke Wollants, lab manager at the Rega Institute of KU Leuven, reports that it is the genotype B3 of the virus, a Moroccan variant.
Wollants noted the concentration of the virus in the water was particularly high, peaking on 11 March. However, only eighteen cases have been reported this year according to Brussels health institute Vivalis, suggesting an underestimation of the situation.
Morocco is currently experiencing a "historically large" measles outbreak. Since the end of 2023, over 25,000 cases and approximately 120 deaths have been recorded in the North African country. The genotype found in Brussels matches the Moroccan B3 variant.
"The virus is spreading rapidly across Europe. This is alarming. In the Netherlands, there have been 45 cases in just two weeks, and Spain and France are facing similar challenges," Wollants warned.
According to a recent report by the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), Belgium ranks fourth in Europe with 551 cases between 1 February 2024 and 31 January 2025.
Wollants urges everyone to check their vaccination status. People born before 1970 are typically immune due to prior exposure. Belgian nationals in their thirties can verify their vaccination records via the website.
As older vaccinations may not always have been digitally recorded, consulting old vaccination cards or the family doctor’s records is recommended. Those not vaccinated or partially vaccinated can receive a free catch-up vaccination from their GP. In cases of doubt, a double catch-up vaccination is advised.
