Belgium is one of many European countries facing the prospect of a long winter, as surging coronavirus infections prompts new lockdowns across the continent.
The country’s Prime Minister Alexander De Croo confirmed Belgium would be going back into lockdown last Friday, describing the situation as a “state of emergency”.
“In many hospitals capacity has already been exceeded. We still do not see a change. There is only one answer, one choice, and that is standing behind our healthcare sector,” he said.
“The only way to do that is to avoid all physical contact as much as possible.”
Everybody gets a ‘hug’ buddy
But, aware of the serious concerns around mental health caused by an extended period of isolations, the Belgian Government will be implementing a ‘knuffelcontact’ rule.
Literally translated as “cuddle contact”, this rule means people living alone will be permitted to have one extra contact visit.
And while knuffelcontact might sound funny, it’s actually a serious measure to address the concerns in a country already weary from dealing with the pandemic.
As tough as COVID has been for everyone, it certainly makes you appreciate how lucky we’ve been in Australia.
