Belgium reports over 20,000 new coronavirus infections

BRUSSELS, Oct 31 (KUNA) -- Total coronavirus cases in Belgium Saturday reached to 412,314 with 20,056 new infections reported by health authorities.
Some 144 deaths from COVID-19 were reported in the last 24 hours, raising the total to 11,452 Last night, Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo announced a second lockdown in the country to stop the rising infection, deaths and hospital admissions.
The new measures will start on Sunday midnight, and remain in force until December 13. Non-essential shops will close and family visits no longer allowed, although schools will remain open. However, Belgium's borders will not be closed and not ban non-essential travel. (end) nk.gta