Sciensano monitors viral haemorrhagic fever in Belgium and provides the authorities with scientific support.
Surveillance of viral haemorrhagic fever
The “Epidemiology of infectious diseases” department participates in the surveillance of viral haemorrhagic fever in Belgium and provides the authorities with scientific support. The department also coordinates the “Risk Assessment Group” (RAG).
Risk Assessment Group
The RAG analyses the risk to public health in Belgium and, if necessary, draws up recommendations to limit the further spread of a virus in Belgium. Based on these recommendations, the Risk Management Group (RMG) initiates the necessary measures.
In addition, Belgium received support from the European Commission, which makes tools available to Member States for the prevention and control of infections. More specifically, the Commission draws up risk analyses, makes recommendations and facilitates rapid communication between Member States. At a European level, there is also a network of specialist laboratories for emerging viral diseases to help Member States with diagnosis, surveillance and intervention in the case of grouped cases.