Table of contents

Invitation for vaccination and how to book an appointment

1. Why does the Brussels-Capital Region use a different appointment platform than Flanders and Wallonia? What does this mean in practice?

In mid-April, the Brussels Region started using a new appointment platform. It was decided to abandon the Doclr system in order to build a more specific application for booking appointments for vaccination. This new system is called Bru-Vax.

Bru-Vax is better suited to the Brussels context. With the new platform, booking an appointment becomes faster and easier, within the local context. We want to offer the citizen flexibility, by allowing a free choice of time and vaccination center. At the same time, we also want to keep the process as simple as possible. That’s why we switched to Bru-Vax.

You don’t have to worry if you have an appointment that was made in the old system or if you received an invitation that was sent from this old system. Both your appointment and your invitation remain valid. More information can be found further in this part of the FAQ.

(update 19/04/2021)

2. Who can register for vaccination on Bru-Vax?

The following people can register for a vaccination appointment:

  • Residents of the Brussels-Capital Region who are 12 or older.
  • People who work in the Brussels-Capital Region and have already received an invitation.

 Making an appointment in advance is no longer mandatory, but it is still recommended.

(update 14/07/2021)

3. How can I make an appointment?

There are two ways to make an appointment for vaccination:

  • Digitally: surf to bru-vax.brussels. To register, all you need is your national register number or BIS number (if you don’t have a national register number), an e-mail address and mobile phone number. You can also enter a foreign mobile phone number. In that case you must of course enter the country code (+xx). You choose the vaccination center and time of your choice. You will receive a confirmation email with QR code. Bring it with you on the day of your vaccination. A vaccination usually consists of two doses. That’s why your confirmation e-mail also mentions an appointment for your second dose. You can change the time via a link in your confirmation e-mail if you wish.
  • By phone: call the vaccination call center at 02/214.19.19. The call center is available from Monday to Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and in the weekend from 10:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Write down when and where your appointment takes place. You do not need an email address or mobile phone number for appointments made by telephone.

(update 14/07/2021)

4. How will the second appointment be assigned, if I receive a vaccine that requires a second dose?

  • Immediately after you have chosen the time for your first appointment, a second appointment is set at the best possible moment.
  • If this moment doesn’t suit you, you can change it yourself via your confirmation email. If you do not have the digital means to do so, you can call the call center (02/214 19 19) to have this second appointment rescheduled.
  • When you change the time for your 2nd appointment, the time for your 1st appointment will also be cancelled and will have to be rescheduled in order to respect the correct time span between both vaccination doses.
  • If your 1st dose has already been administered and you wish to reschedule your 2nd appointment, you must contact the call center (02/214 19 19) to ensure that the correct time span between both doses is taken into account. Do keep in mind that the possibilities of rescheduling a 2nd appointment are very limited, as the time span between two doses must be respected.

(update 14/07/2021)

5. What is an INSS number or BIS number, and where can I find it?

The INSS or Social Security Identification Number is the unique identification key for everyone who comes into contact with Belgian social security. This means that every citizen with either a Belgian identity document or a Belgian residence permit has such a number. The INSS usually corresponds to the national register number. Workers who are not included in the national register are assigned a BIS number from the BIS register of the Crossroads Bank for Social Security. The BIS number consists of 11 digits, the first six of which indicate the date of birth of the card holder. For a BIS number, the month of birth is increased by20 or 40.

This number can be found on documents such as:

  • your eID (electronic ID-card)
  • the electronic card issued to EU citizens residing in Belgium
  • the residence permit issued to citizens of countries outside the European Union residing in Belgium
  • the ISI+ card (issued by the mutual health insurance fund to people who do not have an electronic ID-card and who are covered by social security for healthcare in Belgium).
  • the tax form
  • the number of your pension file
  • the ID-card for foreigners

(update 19/04/2021)

6. Since mid-April, the Brussels-Capital Region has switched to new appointment platform. If I made an appointment using the ‘old’ system, does it remain valid?

Your existing appointment remains valid. You can simply check in at the vaccination center at the scheduled date and time with your confirmation email (if you have received one). If you want to change an existing appointment, you can call the call center (02/214.19.19). Always keep your INSS number and your postal code at hand.

(update 19/04/2021)

7. Since mid-April, the Brussels-Capital Region has been using a new appointment platform. Is my invitation for vaccination still valid for this new appointment platform?

Absolutely. There are two things you can do:

  • Either follow the instructions in your invitation. If you enter a vaccination code and a postal code for Brussels, you will automatically be transferred from the old to the new platform, so you will always be at the right place to make your appointment.
  • Go directly to bru-vax.brussels or make an appointment by phone via the call center. For more info on how this works, go to the question “How can I make an appointment?”.

(update 21/05/2021)

8. I am unable to click on the vaccination center of my choice. What should I do?

The available time slots at the vaccination centers are released according to the vaccines that are available. If you don’t see any available time slots in the vaccination center of your choice, it means that there are no places available at that time. Try again a few days later.

If this is the only center for which you can register, you can also subscribe to the waiting list. However, it is important that as many people as possible get vaccinated as soon as possible. Therefore, we’d rather recommend checking for which other centers you can also register, and booking an appointment there immediately.

(update 19/04/2021)

9. I am having technical problems with Bru-Vax in my web browser. Now what?

Currently, Bru-Vax doesn’t function optimally with the Internet Explorer web browser. Please use a different web browser for your registration. If you don’t have another web browser (such as Edge, Chrome,…) available, please contact the call center on 02/214 19 19.

In principle, Bru-Vax is should work optimally on computer, laptop, tablet and smartphone.

(update 19/04/2021)

10. I received an invitation or am in the target group currently eligible for vaccination, but my INSS number still gets rejected. What should I do?

There may be some delay in uploading the INSS numbers (= national register numbers or BIS numbers) into our system. We therefore advise you to try to log in again the next day.

If you are still denied access, please contact the call center (02/214 19 19).

(update 14/07/2021)

11. After selecting the time of my choice and confirming my SMS code, I get a message that I will be contacted again for booking. What went wrong?

If you already have booked an appointment with your INSS number (= national register number or BIS number) and mobile phone number or email address, you can’t make an additional booking. If the system detects that there is another reservation with your data, you will receive this error message. In case of doubt, you can call the call center (02/214 19 19).

(update 19/04/2021)

12. After selecting the time slot of my choice and confirming my SMS code, I get the message “An error occurred during the booking. We apologize, but the time slot you requested no longer seems to be available”. Was my booking successful?

Your booking was not successful. You won’t receive a confirmation email either. Please log in again and go through the booking process again. After a successful booking you will receive a confirmation email. If you continue to experience problems, please contact the call center (02/214 19 19).

(update 19/04/2021)

13. I received two confirmation emails with the same subject and content. Did I book two appointments?

It is possible that due to a technical problem you receive 2 identical confirmation emails (same subject and content ). However, if both emails contain the same info, you only have 1 booking (with possibly 2 appointments, depending on the type of vaccine) and you can ignore the 2nd email.

 (update 19/04/2021)

14. I have problems with the system’s readability. What do I do?

If you are working on a computer or laptop, you can press the Ctrl key on your keyboard and zoom in more by scrolling. However, it is recommended not to zoom in too much, as this will affect the readability of some other fields in the system. The arrows at the bottom of the page will indicate whether you can navigate a bit more to the left or right.

(update 19/04/2021)

15. How can I recognize a fake invitation?

There are a number of elements that allow you to tell that an invitation is not genuine:

  • Is the invitation unexpected? Are you already vaccinated or do you think it’s not your turn yet for a long time? If so, be critical and look at the invitation carefully.
  • You always receive a personal invitation by email. If your contact details are known, you will also receive an invitation by SMS or email. So if you have received a text message or email that is not accompanied by a letter, it isn’t normal.
  • Official e-mail invitations are always sent from the address cov19-vaccin@doclr.be, and invitations by SMS are always sent from the number 8811. So be sure to check where the invitation comes from if you receive an invitation by email or text.
    Be careful: the sender’s email address can be forged (spoofed), so keep a critical mind.
  • The official invitation will include your name. If you receive a message that is not addressed to you personally, it is suspicious.
  • You are invited by the Flemish, Brussels or Walloon government. You will not receive an invitation from your municipality, or from one of the vaccine manufacturers (Pfizer, Moderna, Astra Zeneca, etc.).
  • The vaccines are free. If the message asks for financial information, all alarm bells should go off. Under no circumstances do what the message asks.

Do you think you’re dealing with a fake invitation? Go to https://safeonweb.be/nl/actueel/kijk-uit-voor-valse-uitnodigingen-voor-vaccinatie (available in Dutch & French) to see what you should do.

(update 11/03/2021)

16. What if I don’t have an email address?

Without an email address, you can’t make an online appointment. If you don’t have an email address of your own, you can enter the email address of a family member or someone close to you. In that case the confirmation email will also be sent to that person.
If also isn’t an option, you can still make an appointment by phone. To do so, call the call center on 02/214.19.19.

(update 07/03/21)

17. Can I choose where I get vaccinated?

When you book your appointment (by phone or through the online booking system), you can choose from a number of centers (the ones that are open at that time according to the vaccination phases and the availability of the vaccines). Once you have chosen, you can’t change the vaccine or the vaccination center. (update 22/02/21)

18. If I have already made an appointment, can I still cancel or reschedule it?

Your digital appointment confirmation has a button that allows you to cancel your appointment. After cancellation, the platform will let you book another appointment. You will then receive a new appointment confirmation.

(update 22/02/2021)

19. Can I transfer my appointment to someone else?

No, this is not possible. All appointments are personal and linked to your national register number.

(update 15/04/2021)

20. From which email address are the invitations sent?

All official invitations are sent from the email address cov19-vaccin@doclr.be.

(update 09/03/21)

21. I will turn 12 this year. Can I already get vaccinated?

 

You can only get vaccinated once you have turned 12. If you only turn 12 later this year, you will have to wait a little longer.

(update 28/07/21)

22. How does the waiting list system work in Brussels and how can I register?

At this time, any Brussels resident aged 12 or older can get vaccinated. You therefore no longer have to join the waiting list, unless you really want to be vaccinated in a specific vaccination center.

You can register online for the waiting list, via the same link you use to book an appointment: www.bru-vax.brussels. A place on the waiting list is always bound to a specific vaccination center, that you choose yourself. This means that you aren’t automatically put on the waiting list for all vaccination centers. It is possible, however, to put yourself on the waiting list for several centers by repeating the same process several times.

However, if possible, it is recommended to check the availabilities in other centers. If this is absolutely not possible, you register on the waiting list of the vaccination center of your choice.

(update 14/07/2021)

Practical information on the vaccination centers

1. Where can I get vaccinated?

Below, you will find the complete list of all vaccination centers in the Brussels-Capital Region where you can get your coronavirus vaccine.

Open since 2 February 2021:

Pacheco (Testing and vaccination center – Boulevard Pachéco-Pachecolaan, 42 in 1000 Brussels).

This vaccination center is accessible by metro lines 2 and 6 (stop Rogier or Botanique/Kruidtuin), bus lines 61, 270, 271, 272, 470 and 620 (stop Botanique/Kruidtuin) and tram lines 3, 4, 25, 55 (stop Rogier), 92 and 93 (stop Botanique/Kruidtuin), or by train via Brussels-Congress station (at 120m from the vaccination point). If you come by car, you can park in the nearby car parks City 2, Rogier and Passage 44.

Open since 15 March 2021:

Forest (Testing & vaccination center Albert – The entrance/exit for vaccination is situated at Chaussée d’Alsemberg-Alsembergsesteenweg 203, 1190 Forest. The entrance/exit for the vaccination of people with reduced mobility (PMR) and for testing is situated at avenue Jupiter-Jupiterlaan 201, 1190 Forest.). 

This vaccination point can be reached by bus lines 48, 54, 37, or 70 or by tram lines 3,4 and 51 (stop Albert). The BePark – Parking Albert 2 (Match Forest) is also in the vicinity for those coming by car.

Schaarbeek (Sports hall Crossing – Avenue du Suffrage Universel-Algemeen Stemrechtlaan 22, 1030 Schaarbeek).

This vaccination point can be reached by bus line56 (stops Voltaire or Crossing) and bus line 66 (stops Crossing or Louis Bertrand) or by tram 7 (stop Louis Bertrand).

Molenbeek (Chaussée de Gand-Gentsesteenweg 696, 1080 Molenbeek).

This vaccination point is accessible with tram line 82 (stop Van Zande or Cimetière de Molenbeek-Begraafplaats van Molenbeek) or with bus lines 49 and 53 (stop Cimetière de Molenbeek- Begraafplaats van Molenbeek).

Woluwe-Saint-Pierre (Joli-Bois/Mooi Bos – Drève des Shetlands-Shetlanderdreef 15, 1150 Woluwe-Saint-Pierre).

This vaccination point can be reached by STIB/MIVB bus line 36 (stop Manoir d’Anjou) or De Lijn bus lines 544, 547, 548, 555 or 556 (stop Mater Dei).

Open since 22 March 2021:

Anderlecht (RSCA – Avenue Théo Verbeeck-Theo Verbeekclaan 2, 1070 Anderlecht).

You can reach this vaccination point with bus line 46 of STIB/MIVB or bus lines 116, 117, 118, 140, 571, 572 or 810 of De Lijn (stop De Linde Plein). If you come by car, you can park on the nearby car parks at Avenue Théo Verbeeck-Theo Verbeecklaan, 10 or 12.

Woluwe-Saint-Lambert (Poseidon – Avenue des Vaillants-Dapperenlaan 2, 1200 Woluwe-Saint-Lambert)

This vaccination point is accessible via bus line 28 (stop Tomberg) or metro line 1 (stop Tomberg).

Uccle/Ukkel (Rue Égide Van Ophem-Egide van Ophemstraat 110, 1180 Uccle)

This vaccination point can be reached by train via Uccle Calevoet station (at 330m from the vaccination point), by tram line 4 (Egide Van Ophem stop) and by bus lines 153, 154, 155 (Hercule Poirot stop) or 575 (Egide Van Ophem stop) from De Lijn.

Open since 3 May 2021:

Military Hospital (Rue Bruyn-Bruynstraat 1, 1120 Neder-over-Heembeek)

You can reach this vaccination point with bus lines 47, 53, 56 and 57 (stop Hôpital Militaire; or SAO/DOO or DGHR Domaine Militaire/Militair Domein (only for line 47) or stop Mercator (only for lines 56 and 57)). The Military Hospital’s car park is also nearby for those coming by car.

(update 24/06/2021)

2. Until when will the vaccination centers stay open?

  • Heysel: closed since on 10 August 2021
  • Military Hospital: closes to the general public on 13 August 2021, but will remain open for specific groups thereafter
  • Uccle closes on 27 August 2021
  • Anderlecht, Woluwe-Saint-Lambert and Schaarbeek: close on 28 August 2021
  • Forest, Pacheco, Woluwe-Saint-Pierre and Molenbeek: will close at the end of October. The exact date will be determined depending on the evolution of the pandemic

(update 11/08/2021)

3. Can I get vaccinated at my general practitioner’s ?

Since 19 July 2021, you can get your coronavirus vaccine at your family doctor’s office or at a medical center.
Please note: It is up to the general practitioners themselves to decide whether they vaccinate or not, because this is an extra workload for them that should not be underestimated. Please check beforehand with your doctor or medical center whether you can be vaccinated and how to make an appointment. It’s best to bear in mind that general practitioners always have to order the vaccines.

(update 28/07/2021)

4. How is the coronavirus vaccine administered?

Check-in at the vaccination center

  • Register at the vaccination center with your QR code (on smartphone or paper) and your identity card.
  • Your temperature will be taken (if it is above 38°C, you can’t get your shot).
  • The vaccinator will administer the COVID-19 vaccine.

Observation: waiting room of the vaccination center

  • After having received your vaccine, you may rest in the waiting room. You have to stay there for 15 to 30 minutes for observation.
  • After you have been vaccinated, the details of your vaccination will appear in your medical record, that you can consult on https://www.ehealth.fgov.be or https://www.masanté.belgique.be/ (available in French, Dutch or German).

Check-out of the vaccination center

  • You can leave the vaccination center.

Registration

  • All data (surname, name, national register number, postal code, vaccine, batch number, hour, place, date) that are needed to register and follow up on your vaccination, are automatically registered in VaccinNet+ (the federal vaccination data base).

(update 30/03/2021)

5. Can I get a proof of my vaccination?

Since 16 June, the European Digital Covid Certificate is available in Belgium. It is important to check your vaccination details in time, as these details will be included on your vaccination certificate. Extensive information about the Covid certificate, how to obtain it and how to check your vaccination details can be found on this page.

This document is the only official proof of vaccination. The card you receive after your shot at the vaccination center is not an official vaccination certificate.

(update 18/06/2021)

6.  I have already been vaccinated but it hasn’t been registered. What should I do?

At this point, it is best to take into account a period of maximum 1 week (and minimum 48 hours) between the administration of your vaccine and its registration on https://www.brusselshealthnetwork.be and https://www.masanté.belgique.be.

If you still cannot find the registration in your personal medical file, please contact our call center at 02/214.19.19.

(update 07/05/2021)

7. Are the vaccination centres accessible to persons with reduced mobility?

All Brussels vaccination centres are accessible to persons with reduced mobility. They also have a number of wheelchairs available for visitors. However, it is not possible to reserve one in advance. At the Heysel and Pacheco vaccination centers, we also provide extra assistance to help people with reduced mobility.

(update 11/03/2021)

8. Which mobility solutions are available for those who have difficulties going to the vaccination center?

In close cooperation with various partners, several transport solutions have been put into place for these people:

  • Free public transport offered by STIB/MIVB:
    • Since 17 March, STIB/MIVB offers free tickets, that Brussels residents can use to go to one of the Region’s vaccination centers. You can benefit from this initiative if you are eligible for vaccination in Brussels. You can ask your free tickets by ticking a box when booking your appointment on Bru-Vax (more information on the subject is available on : https://coronavirus.brussels/en/free-transportation/). Once you have confirmed your appointment, you will receive a confirmation email with one or two “Event Pass” codes (depending on the number of doses required for your vaccine). To convert your codes into tickets, go to a GO vending machine and enter the codes. You will then receive two tickets for a round trip, valid on the entire STIB/MIVB network.
    • Do you have no email address and/or computer, or do you have difficulties using them? You can call our call center on 02/214.19.19 for help.
    • Are you a customer of the STIB/MIVB TaxiBus service*? You can also go to the vaccination center for free on the day of your appointment. Book your free round trip in advance by calling the usual “accessibility line”: 02/515.23.65.

* TaxiBus is a specific transport service offered by STIB to people with a disability. You can find more information about this service here. For more information on the service, go to www.taxibus.be. It is also the place to subscribe to the service.

  • Free Vaccination Tickets at SNCB

The Uccle Calevoet and Brussels Congress railway stations are both close to a vaccination point.

If you come by train, you need to obtain a free vaccination ticket in advance. The free tickets are available via the SNCB’s website or app, at one of the vending machines or at the ticket office. This ticket is valid for a round trip in 2nd class on the day of your vaccination.

When checked by the train attendant, you must show your Vaccination Ticket and the confirmation of your vaccination appointment (on paper, by e-mail or text message). If you made your appointment by telephone (and therefore do not have a digital confirmation), your invitation letter will be stamped at the vaccination point.

You can request this ticket for both vaccination appointments.

  • Local strategies at the initiative of the Brussels municipalities

Several municipalities offer transport solutions to assist senior citizens. Check your municipatlity’s newspaper, Facebook page, etc. for more information on these initiatives.

  • The mutual health insurance companies also offer a transport service for people with reduced mobility. They can find more information about the conditions for use and reimbursement on their health insurance company’s website. If they meet these conditions, they can request transport via the following telephone numbers or e-mail addresses:
    • Partenamut – Mutualité Libre : Transportline – 078 15 50 91
    • Mutualité Socialiste : Soli-transport – 02/546.15.13 – solidaritel@fmsb.be
    • Mutualité Chrétienne : Proximité Santé ASBL – 02 644 51 31
    • Mutualité Libérale : Cosedi Bruxelles – 02/218.77.72 – info@cosedi.be
    • Mutualité Neutre : Solumob – 02/217.44.44 ou via reservation@solumob.be

(update 24/06/2021)

9. What if I am unable to go to a vaccination center?

Since 26 April 2021, the Brussels-Capital Region uses mobile teams for home vaccination.

At this stage, the mobile teams are only used in highly exceptional situations. They are strictly reserved for those who are genuinely unable go to a vaccination center on their own.

These are people who have been bedridden for a long time, people with severe physical disabilities or serious psychiatric problems, or people who have no way of getting vaccinated through the normal procedure because of another physical or mental condition.

Since 19 May 2021, these mobile teams also play an important role in vaccinating the most precarious target groups (homeless people, transmigrants, etc.).
(update 24/06/2021)

10. Who is eligible for home vaccination by a mobile team?

At this stage, this option is only available for those who really cannot get to a vaccination center on their own.

These are people who have been bedridden for a long time, people with severe physical disabilities or serious psychiatric problems, or people who have no way of getting vaccinated through the normal procedure because of another physical or mental condition.

Do you think you are eligible for home vaccination? Contact your general practioner. He/she will evaluate, based on objective criteria, whether or not you can benefit from this arrangement.

People with reduced mobility or people who can go to a vaccination center with assistance are not eligible for this. For them, however, specific transport solutions have been put in place to make it as easy as possible for them to travel on the day of their vaccination appointment. More information in the question: “Which mobility solutions are available for those who have difficulties going to the vaccination center?”

(update 09/04/2021)

11. How can I make an appointment for vaccination at home?

Only a general practitioner can make an appointment those who are eligible for home vaccination against Covid-19.

However, each GP has been asked to limit bookings to a maximum of 12 patients. As the organization of at-home vaccination is complex, this limitation should avoid mobile teams being used when not necessary.

Do you think you are eligible for at-home vaccination? Contact your GP, who will check, based on objective criteria, if this is the case.

Once the GP has decided that you are eligible for at-home vaccination, there are two possibilities:

  1. The mobile team visits the patient at home to vaccinate him/her. In this case, the vaccination is free of charge.
  2. Patients who wish to have the vaccine administered at home by their own GP, have to pay for the consultation with their GP.

(update 09/04/2021)

12. I would like to help in the vaccination centers. How can I know if I am eligible and what do I need to do?

Currently, we still need people, with or without medical background, to help in the vaccination centers (to administer or prepare the vaccines, or for administrative and logistical tasks). You can find more information and the registration form at https://vaccibrussels.beepleapp.eu.

(update 15/04/2021)

13. If I help out in a vaccination center, am I entitled to a vaccination before I start working?

If you actually work in a vaccination center, you will be vaccinated. You must of course also be present for your second dose.

(update 15/04/2021)

General information on the coronavirus and Covid-19 vaccines

1. I am a Muslim. Can I get vaccinated during the fasting period of the month of Ramadan?

The period of fasting during the month of Ramadan, which began on13 April 13 2021, coincides with the vaccination campaign and raises certain fears and questions among the Muslim population.

If you are Muslim, the Executive of the Muslims of Belgium (EMB), supported by the Council of Theologians, reassures you that vaccines (whether against Covid or something else) do not interfere in any way with the observance of the fast, nor do they affect its validity.

The Council of Theologians adds that the vaccine remains indispensable to save human lives.

For more information, visit https://www.embnet.be/fr/se-faire-vacciner-en-periode-de-jeune-du-mois-de-ramadan.

(update 19/04/2021)

2. Can I choose my vaccine?

Since 23 June, it is been possible to choose either Johnson & Johnson’s single dose vaccine or one of both other available vaccines (Pfizer or Moderna). The AstraZeneca vaccine will no longer be administered as a first dose, but only as a second dose (for those who have already received a first dose of that vaccine).

From now on you can also see in Bru-Vax where and when the Johnson & Johnson’s single dose vaccine is available. The other slots do not show whether it is a Pfizer or Moderna vaccine. As a reminder, these are both vaccines that are administered in two doses, with a similar time period between each dose (more info in the next question ).

(update 24/06/2021)

3. What is the time period between two doses of the vaccine (two jabs)?

It depends on the vaccine:

  • Pfizer: between 21 and 28 days
  • Moderna: between 28 and 35 days
  • AstraZeneca: between 56 and 89 days

(update 28/07/2021)

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4. How does a coronavirus vaccine work?

The vaccine mimics an infection with the virus without causing disease.

  • TRAINING
    The vaccine trains the immune system. It learns to make antibodies against the coronavirus without ever having seen the virus.
  • SPIKES
    Spikes (keys) are made as a training material. They aren’t attached to a coronavirus and do not cause sickness. The body reacts by making antibodies.
  • ANTIBODIES
    After a few days, have been eliminated. The antibodies, however, remain.
  • SYMPTOMS
    Training is hard work for your body. You might feel the effect. You may get a slight fever or a redness or swelling around the place of injection. This will go away spontaneously (after 1 to 3 days).
  • STRONGER
    If you are infected with the real virus later on, the antibodies will kill the virus immediately. Or you will produce antibodies more quickly.

(update 22/02/2021)

5. Which vaccines are there?

There are 3 types of vaccines:

  • RNA VACCINE

In the syringe are instructions (RNA) packed in a droplet of fat. Our body temporarily produces harmless spikes on its own. These will disappear very quickly.

Producers: CureVac, Moderna, Pfizer BioNTech

  • VECTOR VACCINE

In the syringe are instructions (DNA) packed in a harmless virus. Our body temporarily produces harmless spines on its own. These will disappear back very quickly.

Producers: AstraZeneca & Oxford University, Johnson & Johnson

  • CLASSIC VACCINE

In the syringe is the coronavirus itself, but killed and cut into pieces. As a result, it can no longer penetrate cells.

Producers: Sanofi – GSK (no earlier than 2022)

(update 22/02/2021)

6. Is the coronavirus vaccine mandatory?

No, the coronavirus vaccine is not mandatory.

(update 22/02/2021)

7. How much does the coronavirus vaccine cost?

The coronavirus vaccine is offered free of charge.

(update 22/02/2021)

8. Do I still need to be vaccinated if I have already had Covid-19?

At this moment, it cannot be confirmed that someone who has previously come into contact with Covid-19 will remain immune to the disease, and for how long. What we do now for certain is that reinfections are being reported. In addition, in real life it is unfeasible to check everyone to see whether they have antibodies against Covid-19 in their blood, and thus whether a vaccination is needed.

We therefore recommend that everyone be vaccinated.
(update 22/02/2021)

9. What if I develop side effects?

A special European monitoring system has been set up for the coronavirus vaccine. This allows us to take action quickly if necessary.

If you experience any side effects after vaccination, wheter they are mentioned in the leaflet or not, you can report them to the FAMHP. You can do this online at https://www.afmps.be/fr/effet_indesirable or via your GP or healthcare professionals.

Experts from the FAMHP evaluate these side effects. Such findings are also shared worldwide. By bringing the data together on a large scale, possible indications are discovered more quickly.

(update 22/02/21)

10. I am pregnant. Can I get vaccinated?

Contrary to previous recommendations, and based on the most recent scientific data and recommendations, the Supreme Health Council states that all pregnant women should ideally be vaccinated as a priority (phase 1b of the campaign). The reason is that they have an increased risk of severe Covid-19 and preterm delivery. The available mRNA vaccines against Covid-19 (Pfizer and Moderna) are safe to be administered to them.

If you are a pregnant woman with medical conditions, such as an increased BMI before pregnancy, high blood pressure, diabetes, etc., this is an additional argument for recommending vaccination. This is also the case when there is an increased risk of infection (e.g. in healthcare workers).

In pregnant women, no more adverse reactions are reported after vaccination. For fever up to 24-48h after vaccination, the Supreme Health Council recommends paracetamol at the recommended dose (https://www.cbip.be/fr/chapters/9?frag=6437). If the fever persists or if other symptoms occur, you should consult your doctor.

You can read the SHC’s advice (15/4/21) here (in French): https://www.health.belgium.be/sites/default/files/uploads/fields/fpshealth_theme_file/20210422_css-9622_vaccination_femme_enceinte_allaitante_vweb.pdf

Watch the video by Dr. Isabelle Dehaene, gynecologist at UZ Gent here (in French): https://d34j62pglfm3rr.cloudfront.net/downloads/02_FR_VaccinerenBijZwangerschap.mp4

(update 29/04/2021)

11. Can vaccination against Covid-19 reduce my fertility?

When you fight a COVID-19 infection or are vaccinated, you develop antibodies against the coronavirus’ spikes. There is only a slight similarity between the protein of those spikes and a protein playing a part in the formation of the placenta in early pregnancy (syncytin-1). This similarity is too small to have any effect on the placenta. If it did, common coronaviruses that cause colds would also affect fertility, because the same slight similarity is present in all coronaviruses. However, no such effect is observed at all. Therefore, there is no reason for concern. Pregnancy statistics in the US also confirm this.

The vaccines have no impact on male fertility either.

(update 26/04/2021)

12. What are the side effects of the vaccines against Covid-19?

As with any vaccine, there may be some unwanted side effects. The common side effects are the same as for many other vaccines:

  • Local side effects: pain at the site of injection, redness, swelling.
  • General side effects: fever, headache, muscle pain, fatigue, diarrhoea.

It might be that you are allergic to one of the components of the vaccine and an allergic reaction occurs (skin rash, breathing difficulties, etc.), although this is extremely rare (11/1,000,000). This can also occur with other vaccines.

In those cases, we are talking about the risk of serious side effects. It is important to know that such serious side effects occur in less than 0.005% of cases and that they often remain without consequences if they are treated appropriately and in time. This is why all vaccination centers are supervised by a doctor and the necessary equipment is available.

It has been observed that more reactions occur after the second dose, that people older than 55 have less risk of side effects and that most side effects are mild to moderate and disappear quickly (almost 90% of them disappears during the first week).

The FAMHP publishes a weekly cumulative overview of all side effects reported after the administration of a coronavirus vaccine. All reported side effects are included in this overview, in order to determine whether or not there is a link with vaccination. You can consult this overview in the FAMHP’s news.

(update 26/08/2021)

13. Will vaccination allow us to abandon all protective measures?

Vaccinatie zal er niet voor zorgen dat we in één ruk alle vrijheden gaan kunnen herwinnen. Jezelf beschermen door de maatregelen i.v.m. afstand en hygiëne (maar ook verluchting) na te leven, zal nog enige tijd van cruciaal belang blijven en dit om meerdere redenen:

Vaccination will not enable us to regain all our freedoms at once. Protecting yourself by observing social distancing and hygiene measures (but also ventilation) will remain crucial for some time to come, for several reasons:

  • the vaccine won’t protect immediately after its administration;
  • the entire population won’t be vaccinated immediately;
  • the duration of protection has not yet been scientifically established;
  • even though someone who has been vaccinated is better protected against the virus, we don’t know yet to what extent he/she are still able to transmit the virus to others who have not yet been vaccinated.

Further studies are underway to determine how contagious a vaccinated person is.

(update 22/02/2021)

14. Who is eligible for a vaccine?

Anyone over the age of 12, with a national registration number or BIS number and their domicile in Belgium is eligible for vaccination. For those who don’t meet these conditions (for example, homeless people, transmigrants, etc.), specific solutions have been worked out with stakeholders in the field. For example, on 19 May, mobile teams started vaccinating homeless people, with the support of various associations active in the sector.

People who live in precarious circumstances or have no fixed address or INSS number can also get vaccinated at our vaccination centers (except for the Military Hospital). The Pacheco vaccination center has been designated as the reference center for this target group. These individuals can go there without an appointment. A BIS number is created on the spot, without the need to provide a residential address.

(update 14/07/2021)

15. What if I don’t want to be vaccinated?

Getting vaccinated is strongly recommended, but not mandatory.

(update 15/04/2021)

16. How do I know if I’m eligible fort he free PCR tests this summer?

As of 1 July 2021, it is possible to benefit from two free PCR tests to travel abroad. In order to be eligible, you must meet a set of conditions:

  • You are 6 years of age or older
  • You have your main residence in Belgium
  • You have not yet received an invitation to vaccination
    OR you were invited less than 30 days ago
    OR you have not yet been fully vaccinated.

If you have not yet been fully vaccinated, you are entitled to the free PCR tests up to 14 days after the administration of your last vaccine dose:

  • AstraZeneca: you received your 1st dose less than 84 days ago (if your 1st dose was administered before 22 May), or less than 70 days ago (if your 1st dose was administered after 22 May)
  • Moderna or Pfizer: you had your first dose less than 49 days ago
  • Johnson&Johnson: you received your single dose less than 14 days ago

If you are travelling before 1 July, you are unfortunately not entitled to the free tests.

If you meet the conditions for the free tests and already made an appointment before July 1 for a test after July 1, you are entitled to a refund. More info about this refund procedure will follow later.

(update 05/07/2021)

17. How can I request my free PCR tests?

If you want to use your free PCR test, you first have to request your free test code via your personal file on www.masante.belgique.be or www.mijngezondheid.belgie.be. You can only request test codes for yourself and your children.

Next, go to brussels.testcovid.be to book your test appointment. During the booking process you have to enter the code for the free PCR test.

Be careful! Once you have requested your test code, it is only valid for 10 days. This means you have to get tested within 10 days after requesting your test code. If you wait longer than these 10 days, the code will lose its validity.

(update 05/07/2021)

18. How long do my free test codes remain valid?

Once you have requested your test code, it only remains valid for 10 days. This means you have to get tested within 10 days after requesting your test code. If you wait longer than these 10 days, the code will lose its validity.

Be careful! Once you have requested a code, it is considered used, even if you don’t use it to book an appointment. Please only request a code for a free PCR test if you really intend to get tested within 10 days.

If you are not entitled to a free PCR test because you don’t meet the conditions, or because you have already used your two free codes, you are still eligible for a paying PCR test prior to travel. For this kind of tests, you also need to make an appointment in advance via brussels.testcovid.be.

(update 05/07/2021)

19. Where can I find additional information?

If you’re looking for additional information, you can find it on these useful websites:

20. Who can receive the AstraZeneca vaccine?

Belgium, along with a number of other countries, recently asked the European Medicines Agency (EMA) to conduct a risk-benefit analysis for the different age groups. While this EMA update was pending, Belgium temporarily reserved the vaccine for people 56 years of age or older.

On 25 April the EMA’s Scientific Committee concluded that the risk of severe Covid-19 is overall much higher than the risk of serious side effects, such as blood clots in combination with lowered numbers of platelets. This side effect of the AstraZeneca vaccine occurs only in very rare cases, and especially in younger people.

Based on the advice of the Superior Health Council and the Task Force on Vaccination, the Interministerial Conference now decided to use the AstraZeneca vaccine from the age of 41. At that age, the benefits definitely outweigh the rare risk.

The EMA also stuck to its recommendation that everyone who has already received a first dose of the AstraZeneca vaccine should also be administered the second dose, eight to twelve weeks after the first one, and this for all ages.

If you have already booked both appointments for an AstraZeneca vaccine, with a period of 12 weeks between the two doses, it is not possible to move the second appointment to an earlier date.

(update 07/05/2021)

21. Who can receive the Johnson & Johnson vaccine?

Since 23 June, every Brussels resident aged 18 or older can choose to receive the Johnson & Johnson vaccine. The online booking platform clearly shows where and when you can make an appointment to get it.

This means that people under 41 years of age are also eligible, on condition that they give their informed consent during the booking procedure.

(update 23/06/2021)

22. Is there a higher risk of these side effects in certain high-risk patients?

There is no indication that the rare side effects occur more often in certain risk patients.

(update 07/04/2021)