Belgian authorities have announced the suspension of all flights to or from the UK for at least 24 hours in response to the detection of a new, more contagious coronavirus strain with special incidence in London and the south-east of London. England. The Netherlands has also suspended flights and France is “seriously considering” doing so as well.
Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo has explained in statements to the VRT channel that Eurostar train journeys are also suspended, although the new strain is still being studied. “We don’t have a conclusive answer,” De Croo acknowledged.
The Belgian president has also announced preventive roadside checks and travelers from the UK will be closely monitored to ensure they comply with the quarantine rules. “We will provide very clear information to all newcomers about what is expected of them,” De Croo said.
Dutch Health Minister Hugo de Jonge had previously announced the suspension of British communications with the Netherlands. “An infectious mutation of COVID-19 virus (sic) is circulating in the UK. It is believed to spread more easily and more quickly and is more difficult to detect,” he explained.
In response to the peak of contagion, the United Kingdom has decreed the equal confinement of London and the south-east of the country, designated as Level 4 areas, forcing residents to stay at home with limited exceptions, closing leisure facilities and non-essential services and imposes work from home except in unappealable circumstance.
Although in principle the stipulated initial duration is two weeks, these restrictions will be reviewed on 30 December, the day on which the British Government will decide on a possible extension to save, as far as possible, the last week of Christmas.