Already ten days ago, the Federal Minister of Health, Frank Vandenbroucke (Vooruit), considered that the change to code yellow of the corona barometer should take place “quickly”. The start of the school year on Monday, March 7 is mentioned. Belgium, where the corona barometer came into effect on January 28, changed from code red to orange two weeks ago (February 18). And since then, the rapid decline of the pandemic has been confirmed: the average daily hospitalizations are regarding to fall below 130 and the number of intensive care beds occupied by covid patients below 200.
If the criterion is largely met for intensive care, it is not yet for daily hospitalizations, which must in theory go below 65 to access the yellow code. But, as was already the case with the passage to orange, the leaders can take into consideration the trend of the figures to accelerate the evolution from one code to another, which they should do.
The three Regions of the country have already announced that they will lift the CST as soon as the code becomes yellow. This color also signifies the end of reception capacity restrictions (“gauges”) for public events and establishments and the end of generalized mask wearing (even if FFP2 remains recommended for vulnerable people). One of the latest health measures remains the presence of CO2 sensors in cafes, restaurants, cultural halls, etc., for which a minimum legislative framework is in preparation.
As for wearing a mask, the question will arise whether, in sectors not covered by the corona barometer, such as public transport, shops, school (for those over 12) and contact professions, the obligation will also be lifted, whether partially or totally. In business, the telework recommendation might also be questioned.
The switch to code yellow would also mean the end of the federal crisis phase, which has been in effect for two years. It might be accompanied by the early exit of the pandemic law, which makes it possible to define health measures by royal decree in the event of an epidemic emergency. Currently in force until April 28, this law might be reformed before this deadline.
