3 January 2021: Virologists are calling for increased coronavirus testing of the under 12’s

3 January 2021: Update on The Corona Pandemic – During the week from 24 to 30 December an average of 1,600 people/day tested positive for the novel coronavirus. This is down 31% on the 7-day rolling average for the previous week. Despite that the positive trend continues, virologists are urging us to remain vigilant. Up until now there is no evidence that the British stain is widespread in Belgium, but they say that we can’t rule out that it is in circulation. Therefore, they insist that also people with mild complaints, be they children or adults, are tested. They say that in England infections are shifting towards younger age groups and although there is still no conclusive evidence that children are the motor behind the spread of the virus, they are arguing to start testing children under the age of 12 as soon as they are having the slightest symptoms. Based on this the government decided that the measures currently in force in schools to curb the spread of coronavirus will not be relaxed before next month’s half-term break. The current situation whereby all primary school children and those in the first and second years of secondary school attend classes full time will remain in force.  Those in the third year of secondary school and above will continue to be taught 50% at school and 50% by digital distance learning methods. Also, the number of rapid coronavirus tests available to schools will be extended from sometime next week. Today’s picture was taken during yesterday’s hike in the muddy fields of the Flemish Ardennes – Flemish Ardennes, Belgium.