While the number of confirmed Covid-19 infections in Belgium continues to decrease, the virus is not gone yet; people who are now getting symptoms such as a fever, a headache and a heavy cough are likely infected, said virologist Steven Van Gucht.
The downward trend in figures has ensured that Belgium was able to switch to Covid management level 1, meaning that there is still virus circulation but at a low level and without impact on the healthcare system.
"The hospitals are under little pressure. Patients stay there for less time and their symptoms are often less severe due to immunity they already acquired in the past," Van Gucht told Het Nieuwsblad.
While the weekly Covid-19 report by the Sciensano national health institute stated that 504 new cases were confirmed between 13 and 19 April, Van Gucht stressed that this figure is incomplete and does not fully reflect reality. "There is less testing, so a lot of cases are not recorded, but measurements in the wastewater do confirm the downward trend."
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While small outbreaks can always appear locally and the virus has not yet disappeared, he is "not worried." Additionally, as the seasons have turned, there is less and less confusion with other "typical" winter diseases, such as flu and RSV.
"The flu epidemic and the spread of RSV stopped a few weeks ago. If you now wake up with a fever, headache and a heavy cough, it seems very likely to me that it is Covid-19," said Van Gucht. "But to be completely sure, you will of course have to do a test."
With summer approaching, he expects that the infection risk will decrease even further as people start being outside a lot more and leave windows and doors open, which is good for ventilation. "Still, think of people with increased vulnerability. If you feel sick, stay indoors and wear a face mask if you do have to leave your house."
