Could the large influx of refugees endanger public health?
At this time, there is no increased risk to our healthcare providers and the general population. Experts from the Belgian public health services are constantly monitoring the situation.
The refugees can rely on urgent health care on arrival. They also receive all the necessary information about where to go if they need medical or mental health care.
In the context of COVID-19, healthcare providers should take the same protective measures as for their existing patients. This means that they and their patients have to wear a mouth mask, among other things. Certain infectious diseases are more common in Ukraine, such as tuberculosis. If a health care provider suspects a certain condition based on complaints or symptoms, they will perform the same diagnostic procedures and treatments as for patients residing in Belgium.