Delivery and distribution of masks: situation and stocks

Several waves of delivery and distribution of masks have already been organised since the beginning of the crisis in relation with the spread of the coronavirus in Belgium.

By 24 March, 16,500,000 surgical masks have already arrived in Belgium and have been distributed or are being distributed, along with 544,000 FFP2-type masks. New deliveries are scheduled in the coming two weeks, including a daily arrival of FFP2 masks. In total, 30,500,000 surgical masks have been ordered, together with 5,359,000 FFP2 masks.

Mask orders are placed by the Federal State and the federated entities (Regions) as well. Their distribution is coordinated by the Province Governors.

To dispatch the masks efficiently, the authorities have designated the following target groups as priority groups: hospitals, ambulances, sorting centres, health professionals in general, laboratory staff and suspicious/confirmed cases in residential communities.

A special Task Force has been set up to monitor the supplies and renew the orders as soon as it appears necessary.

The authorities have also built up a strategic stock. This stock presently amounts to 422,060 masks, of which 286,510 surgical masks and 135,550 FFP2 masks.