Four victims have been transferred to Belgium for care and treatment of burns following the major fire at a nightclub in North Macedonia. They are being treated in specialised hospitals the Belgian foreign minister Maxime Prévot (Francophone centrist/Les Engagés) has revealed.
A fire broke out at the Pulse disco, in the town of Kočani, on Saturday. 59 people were killed. Another 196 were injured. The fire was reportedly started by fireworks during a concert. According to initial findings, there were not enough fire extinguishers and only 1 exit.
Taking care of burns in Belgium
On Monday, Belgium sent a B-FAST reconnaissance team to North Macedonia, following a request for help from the North Macedonian government. The team is composed of specialised personnel from the Belgian defence, foreign and health ministries.
In consultation with the North Macedonian health ministry, the Belgian team made an assessment of the assistance needed at this moment. Based on that, it was decided to transfer four patients to Belgium for burns care. These patients have now arrived in Belgium, Minister Prévot says.
‘Following the devastating tragedy, Belgium expresses its full solidarity with the people of (North) Macedonia and all affected families,’ the minister said.
‘We are mobilising our resources to provide specialised care to patients transferred to Belgium. Our hospitals and medical teams are ready to receive them and offer them the best possible treatment.’
What is B-FAST?
B-FAST is the Belgian federal government body activated when emergency assistance is needed abroad. It involves the Belgian federal ministries of home affairs, health, defence, foreign affairs, foreign trade and development cooperation, policy and support as well as the prime minister's office.