From Monday 27 July, people in Antwerp must have a face mask or other mouth and nose covering with you at all times as a new coronavirus countermeasure. You must wear them when necessary.

Mayor Bart De Wever (N-VA) doesn’t want a general obligation, as this would lead to absurd situations. If you’re alone, why wear a mask?

Will this lead to ambiguous situations? Yes. But people will always find excuses anyway.

In the meantime you must wear a face covering

• on busy streets;
• inside public spaces;
• in restaurants when moving (e.g. to go to the toilet).