What are the measures taken in the Netherlands to prevent outbreaks of serious infectious diseases? What are the risk factors related to coronary heart disease? What is the average life expectancy in the Netherlands? Does health differ according to socio-economic group?

The role of the RIVM in health and disease covers research and advice on new infectious diseases, protection against infectious diseases through vaccination and risks due to poisonous substances and exposure to radiation. RIVM also examines the most common causes of death in the Netherlands. 

RIVM functions as a research institute and centre of expertise in the Netherlands to support policy-makers and professionals in various fields of work. The institute monitors national and international data on infectious diseases, making it possible to signal potential epidemics in an early phase (early warning). Extensive information on health, illness and disease, risk factors, and care and prevention has been complied into RIVM’s National Atlas for Public Health and Healthcare (in Dutch only).