27 December 2022 | 16:15

Weekly update on the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2: 27 December 2022

In the Infection Radar survey, the percentage of participants who reported possible symptoms of COVID-19 last week increased compared to the week before that (rising to +7.3%). The number of Infection Radar participants who tested positive for COVID-19 also increased (rising to +1.7%) compared to the week before that. In addition, the number of people who tested positive for COVID-19 reported to the Municipal Public Health Services (GGDs) increased (+14%) last week, and the number of people who were tested for COVID-19 by the GGD also increased (21%). The number of nursing home residents who tested positive for COVID-19 stabilised last week (+4%).

On 13 December 2022, the reproduction number based on reported positive tests was1.04 (0.91 – 1.18). The number of new hospital admissions of patients with SARS-CoV-2 decreased somewhat (-6%) compared to the week before. The number of new ICU admissions of patients with SARS-CoV-2 increased slightly. There were 42 ICU admissions last week, compared to 38 ICU admissions the week before. This may not include all hospital admissions due to a delay in reporting during the Christmas period.

Read more on the page: Weekly coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 figures 

27 December 2022

Vaccination figures

22 December 2022 | 15:00

Risk of hospital admission more than 2.5 times lower after repeat vaccination in autumn round

In the period from 3 October 2022 through 14 November 2022, the risk of hospital admission for people over 60 who received the repeat vaccination against COVID-19 in the autumn round was more than 2.5 times lower than for people who did not receive this vaccination, but were eligible to do so. The risk of ICU admission for people over 60 with a repeat vaccination in autumn 2022 was more than 2.5 times lower than for people who had had at least one previous vaccination.

Read more on the webpage: Risk of hospital admission more than 2.5 times lower after repeat vaccination in autumn round

20 December 2022 | 16:00 

Vaccination figures for autumn round of COVID-19 repeat vaccination

From 19 September up to and including 18 December 2022, nearly 4 million repeat vaccinations against COVID-19 were administered. Vaccination coverage for the repeat vaccination among people over 60 has now reached 58.1%.

Read more in the weekly update on COVID-19 vaccination figures. 

20 December 2022 | 15:00

Weekly update on the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2: 20 December 2022

In the Infection Radar survey, the percentage of participants who reported possible symptoms of COVID-19 last week increased compared to the week before that (rising to +6.0%). The number of Infection Radar participants who tested positive for COVID-19 also increased (rising to +1.4%) compared to the week before that. The number of people who tested positive for COVID-19 reported to the Municipal Public Health Services (GGDs) stabilised (+2%). The number of people who were tested for COVID-19 by the GGD decreased slightly last week (-6.0%). The number of nursing home residents who tested positive for COVID-19 continued to increase last week (+14%).

On 6 December 2022, the reproduction number based on reported positive tests was 0.94 (0.82 – 1.07). The number of new hospital admissions of patients with SARS-CoV-2 increased somewhat (+9%) compared to the week before. The number of new ICU admissions of patients with SARS-CoV-2 increased. There were 38 ICU admissions last week (+46%), compared to 26ICU admissions the week before.

Read more on the page: Weekly coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 figures 

22 December 2022 | 15:00

Risk of hospital admission more than 2.5 times lower after repeat vaccination in autumn round

In the period from 3 October 2022 through 14 November 2022, the risk of hospital admission for people over 60 who received the repeat vaccination against COVID-19 in the autumn round was more than 2.5 times lower than for people who did not receive this vaccination, but were eligible to do so. The risk of ICU admission for people over 60 with a repeat vaccination in autumn 2022 was more than 2.5 times lower than for people who had had at least one previous vaccination.

Read more on the webpage: Risk of hospital admission more than 2.5 times lower after repeat vaccination in autumn round 

13 December 2022 | 16:00 

Vaccination figures for autumn round of COVID-19 repeat vaccination

From 19 September up to and including 11 December 2022, more than 3.9 million repeat vaccinations against COVID-19 were administered. Vaccination coverage for the repeat vaccination among people over 60 has now reached 57.6%.

Read more in the weekly update on COVID-19 vaccination figures.  

13 December 2022 | 17:00

Weekly update on the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2: 13 December 2022

As of 16 September 2022, the Coronavirus Dashboard provided by the national government also includes the coronavirus thermometer. The thermometer offers a visual representation of pressure on society and healthcare as a result of the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2. The coronavirus thermometer is based on the epidemiological situation and the associated RIVM analysis.

The RIVM Response Team advises coronavirus thermometer: status 1 – low (Limited pressure on healthcare chain and society)

Infection Radar, testing, and hospital and ICU admissions

In the Infection Radar survey, the percentage of participants who reported possible symptoms of COVID-19 last week increased compared to the week before that (rising to +5.6%). The number of Infection Radar participants who tested positive for COVID-19 increased very slightly (rising to +1.1%) compared to the week before that. The number of people who tested positive for COVID-19 reported to the Municipal Public Health Services (GGDs) increased slightly (+7%). The number of people who were tested for COVID-19 by the GGD stabilised last week (-4%). The number of nursing home residents who tested positive for COVID-19 increased significantly last week (+51%).

On 29 November 2022, the reproduction number based on reported positive tests was The number of new hospital admissions of patients with SARS-CoV-2 increased (+16%) compared to the week before. The number of new ICU admissions of patients with SARS-CoV-2 increased slightly. There were 26 ICU admissions last week (+8%), compared to 24 ICU admissions the week before.

Sewage surveillance

In week 48 (28 November - 4 December 2022), sewage surveillance showed that the national average viral load was about the same as last week (+3%). In that week, the highest figures were seen in the regions of Amsterdam-Amstelland and Haaglanden. In the first half of week 49 (5 – 7 December), the average viral load continued to increase, rising by +12%. Viral loads were highest in Gelderland-Zuid. Once again, the Omicron BA.5 variant and its sub-variants were detected most frequently in sewage surveillance: mainly BQ.1. More recombinants (variants that combine properties of multiple SARS-CoV-2 variants) and Omicron BA.2 sub-variants were also detected, particularly BA.2.75 and its sub-variants.

Virus variants from pathogen surveillance

Since early 2022, RIVM has mainly observed many different sub-variants that belong to the Omicron family in the context of  pathogen surveillance. Mutations are also emerging within these sub-variants. The same pattern is occurring in other countries as well.

Since June 2022, BA.5 has been responsible for the highest number of infections in the Netherlands. An increase in BA.4.6, BA.2.75 and BF.7 had already been observed. More recently, the percentage of sub-variant BQ.1, including BQ.1.1, has been growing. Recombinant XBB (a variant that combines properties of various Omicron sub-variants) is also increasing. At this time, there are no indications that these sub-variants would be more likely to cause severe illness compared to previous Omicron sub-variants.

The latest calculations suggest that BQ.1 may soon become dominant in the Netherlands. These estimates always have some margin of uncertainty. It is also possible that multiple variants, including BQ.1 and XBB, will continue circulating at the same time. New variants or sub-variants may also emerge.

¹ As published 13 December 2022 in the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands.

² Reports by the Municipal Public Health Services (GGDs) to RIVM between 6 December 2022 10:01 and 13 December 2022 10:00.

³As published 6 December 2022 in the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands.

⁴ Reports by the Municipal Public Health Services (GGDs) to RIVM between 29 November 2022 10:01 and 6 December 2022  10:00.

⁵Not all patients admitted to hospital with the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 have COVID-19 as the main reason or one of the reasons for hospital admission. The hospital and ICU admissions for which it is known that admission was due to other reasons than a SARS-CoV-2 infection (category 3 in the admission reasons) are not counted here. For an explanation of the categories of admission reasons, see the RIVM graphs page, or the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands.

⁶ The number of unique survey participants reporting symptoms that could indicate COVID-19 per day who filled out a survey questionnaire, summed up for the entire calendar week (Monday through Sunday). This number is divided by the number of unique participants per day who filled out a survey questionnaire.

⁷The number of unique survey participants reporting a positive COVID-19 test per day, summed up for the entire calendar week (Monday through Sunday). The positive test result could come from a self-test, a PCR test or a rapid antigen test. These results are not from the nose and throat swabs sent in through the self-test study that started in September 2022.

⁸ Not all of these reported deaths occurred within the last week. The actual number of deaths is higher than the deaths that are reported in the surveillance. This is because there is no mandatory reporting requirement for death due to COVID-19. For that reason, the mortality figures presented here are underreported.

⁹ As published 13 December 2022 in the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands. The figures from the past week and current week may be updated to include any test results provided later. These figures only include tests of people who were tested in the GGD test lanes and does not include any tests that are required in order to travel.

¹⁰ For more information about the reproduction number, click here.

¹¹ The reproduction numbers (R) based on NICE data are calculated using hospital and ICU admissions due to COVID-19. These calculations do not include admissions registered by NICE after 25 January 2022 for any reason other than COVID-19.

¹² Based on data available at RIVM on Monday afternoon, 12 December 2022, as published in the open data. See the sewage surveillance updates on the Coronavirus Dashboard for the latest figures. See the explanation of the data presented for more details about how these figures are calculated.

¹³ In the first half of last week, between 1 and 3 samples were taken from each sampling location and analysed. The samples were taken on the Monday, Tuesday and/or Wednesday of that week.

¹⁴ Ideally, a total of 4 sewage samples from all 311 sampling locations would be taken and analysed in order to calculate the average for the previous week.

¹⁵ Number of people connected to the number of sampling locations on which the average is based. 

06 December 2022 | 16:20 

Vaccination figures for autumn round of COVID-19 repeat vaccination

From 19 September up to and including 4 December 2022, more than 3.8 million repeat vaccinations against COVID-19 were administered. Vaccination coverage for the repeat vaccination among people over 60 has now reached 57.3%.

Read more in the weekly update on COVID-19 vaccination figures.  

6 December 2022 | 16:15

Weekly update on the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2: 6 December 2022

As of 16 September 2022, the Coronavirus Dashboard provided by the national government also includes the coronavirus thermometer. The thermometer offers a visual representation of pressure on society and healthcare as a result of the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2. The coronavirus thermometer is based on the epidemiological situation and the associated RIVM analysis.

The RIVM Response Team advises coronavirus thermometer: status 1 – low (Limited pressure on healthcare chain and society)

Infection Radar, testing, and hospital and ICU admissions

In the Infection Radar survey, the percentage of participants who reported possible symptoms of COVID-19 last week increased compared to the week before that (+5.3%). The number of Infection Radar participants who tested positive for COVID-19 remained stable (+1%) compared to the week before that. The number of people who tested positive for COVID-19 reported to the Municipal Public Health Services (GGDs) increased slightly (+5%). The number of people who were tested for COVID-19 by the GGD stabilised last week (-1%). The number of nursing home residents who tested positive for COVID-19  increased last week (+19%).

On 22 November 2022, the reproduction number based on reported positive tests was  0.98 (0.83 – 1.13). The number of new hospital admissions of patients with SARS-CoV-2 was stable (+2%) compared to the week before. The number of new ICU admissions of patients with SARS-CoV-2 decreased.  There were 24 ICU admissions last week (-20%), compared to 30 ICU admissions the week before.

Sewage surveillance

In week 47 (21 – 27 November 2022), sewage surveillance showed that the national average viral load increased slightly, rising by 4.7%. In that week, the highest figures were seen in the Kennemerland region. In the first half of week 48 (28 November – 1 December), the average viral load increased slightly, rising by 4.7%. Viral loads were highest in Limburg-Zuid and Amsterdam-Amstelland. Once again, the Omicron BA.5 variant and its sub-variants were detected most frequently in sewage surveillance: mainly BQ.1. More recombinants (variants that combine properties of multiple SARS-CoV-2 variants) and Omicron BA.2 sub-variants were also detected, particularly BA.2.75 and its sub-variants.

Virus variants from pathogen surveillance

Since early 2022, RIVM has mainly observed many different sub-variants that belong to the Omicron family, specifically sub-variants BA.1 through BA.5, in the context of pathogen surveillance. Mutations are also emerging within these sub-variants. The same pattern is occurring in other countries as well.

Since June 2022, BA.5 has been responsible for the highest number of infections in the Netherlands. An increase in BA.4.6, BA.2.75 and BF.7 had already been observed. More recently, the percentage of sub-variant BQ.1, including BQ.1.1, has been growing. Recombinant XBB (a variant that combines properties of various Omicron sub-variants) is also increasing. At this time, there are no indications that these sub-variants would be more likely to cause severe illness compared to previous Omicron sub-variants.

The latest calculations suggest that BQ.1 may soon become dominant in the Netherlands. These estimates always have some margin of uncertainty. It is also possible that multiple variants, including BQ.1 and XBB, will continue circulating at the same time. New variants or sub-variants may also emerge.

¹ As published 6 December 2022 in the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands.

² Reports by the Municipal Public Health Services (GGDs) to RIVM between 29 November 2022 10:01 and 6 December 2022 10:00.

³As published 29 November 2022 in the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands.

⁴ Reports by the Municipal Public Health Services (GGDs) to RIVM between 22 November 2022 10:01 and 29 November 2022  10:00.

⁵Not all patients admitted to hospital with the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 have COVID-19 as the main reason or one of the reasons for hospital admission. The hospital and ICU admissions for which it is known that admission was due to other reasons than a SARS-CoV-2 infection (category 3 in the admission reasons) are not counted here. For an explanation of the categories of admission reasons, see the RIVM graphs page, or the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands.

⁶ The number of unique survey participants reporting symptoms that could indicate COVID-19 per day who filled out a survey questionnaire, summed up for the entire calendar week (Monday through Sunday). This number is divided by the number of unique participants per day who filled out a survey questionnaire.

⁷The number of unique survey participants reporting a positive COVID-19 test per day, summed up for the entire calendar week (Monday through Sunday). The positive test result could come from a self-test, a PCR test or a rapid antigen test. These results are not from the nose and throat swabs sent in through the self-test study that started in September 2022.

⁸ Not all of these reported deaths occurred within the last week. The actual number of deaths is higher than the deaths that are reported in the surveillance. This is because there is no mandatory reporting requirement for death due to COVID-19. For that reason, the mortality figures presented here are underreported.

⁹ As published 6 December 2022 in the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands. The figures from the past week and current week may be updated to include any test results provided later. These figures only include tests of people who were tested in the GGD test lanes and does not include any tests that are required in order to travel.

¹⁰ For more information about the reproduction number, click here.

¹¹ The reproduction numbers (R) based on NICE data are calculated using hospital and ICU admissions due to COVID-19. These calculations do not include admissions registered by NICE after 25 January 2022 for any reason other than COVID-19.

¹² Based on data available at RIVM on Monday afternoon, 5 December 2022, as published in the open data. See the sewage surveillance updates on the Coronavirus Dashboard for the latest figures. See the explanation of the data presented for more details about how these figures are calculated.

¹³ In the first half of last week, between 1 and 3 samples were taken from each sampling location and analysed. The samples were taken on the Monday, Tuesday and/or Wednesday of that week.

¹⁴ Ideally, a total of 4 sewage samples from all 311 sampling locations would be taken and analysed in order to calculate the average for the previous week.

¹⁵ Number of people connected to the number of sampling locations on which the average is based. 

02 December 2022 | 17:00 

Ministry follows Health Council advice: COVID-19 vaccination also available for children aged 6 months to 4 years with serious medical conditions

Vaccination against COVID-19 will also be available for children aged 6 months through 4 years who have serious medical conditions, according to the statement made by Ernst Kuipers, Minister of Health, Welfare and Sport, to the House of Representatives of the Netherlands today. An estimated 5000 children aged 6 months to 4 years who have serious medical conditions are at higher risk of serious illness resulting from COVID-19, compared to other children the same age. Examples include certain disorders that affect the heart or lungs. In this decision, the Ministry of Health, Welfare and Sport (VWS) is following the advisory report of the Health Council (in Dutch), which is based on recent EMA guidance.

See the press release (in Dutch) for more details

Read more on the page COVID-19 vaccination for children aged 6 months to 4 years with serious medical conditions

29 November 2022 | 16:00 

Vaccination figures for autumn round of COVID-19 repeat vaccination

From 19 September up to and including 27 November 2022, more than 3.8 million repeat vaccinations against COVID-19 were administered. Vaccination coverage for the repeat vaccination among people over 60 has now reached 56.6%.

Read more in the weekly update on COVID-19 vaccination figures. 

29 November 2022 | 15:00

Weekly update on the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2: 29 November 2022

As of 16 September 2022, the Coronavirus Dashboard provided by the national government also includes the coronavirus thermometer. The thermometer offers a visual representation of pressure on society and healthcare as a result of the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2. The coronavirus thermometer is based on the epidemiological situation and the associated RIVM analysis.

The RIVM Response Team advises coronavirus thermometer: status 1 – low (Limited pressure on healthcare chain and society)

Infection Radar, testing, and hospital and ICU admissions

In the Infection Radar survey, the percentage of participants who reported possible symptoms of COVID-19 last week remained stable compared to the week before that (+4.3%). The number of Infection Radar participants who tested positive for COVID-19 increased slightly compared to the previous week, rising from +0.9% to +1.0%. The number of people who tested positive for COVID-19 reported to the Municipal Public Health Services (GGDs) decreased slightly (-5%). The number of people who were tested for COVID-19 by the GGD also decreased somewhat last week (-12%). The number of nursing home residents who tested positive for COVID-19 increased somewhat last week (+13%).

On 15 November 2022, the reproduction number based on reported positive tests was 0.92 (0.79 – 1.06). The number of new hospital admissions of patients with SARS-CoV-2 increased slightly (+8%) compared to the week before. The number of new ICU admissions of patients with SARS-CoV-2 also increased. There were 30 ICU admissions last week (+67%), compared to 18 ICU admissions the week before.

Sewage surveillance

In week 46 (14 - 20 November 2022), sewage surveillance showed that the national average viral load increased by 28%. Viral loads were highest in Limburg-Zuid and Amsterdam-Amstelland. In the first half of week 47 (21 – 23 November), the average viral load continued to decrease slightly (at least for now), dropping 8%. Viral loads were highest in Kennemerland and Limburg-Zuid. Once again, the Omicron BA.5 variant and its sub-variants were detected most frequently in sewage surveillance: mainly BF.7 and BQ.1. More recombinants and BA.2 variants were also detected, particularly sub-variants of BA.2.75.

Virus variants from pathogen surveillance

Since early 2022, RIVM has mainly observed many different sub-variants that belong to the Omicron family, specifically sub-variants BA.1 through BA.5, in the context of pathogen surveillance. Mutations are also emerging within these sub-variants. The same pattern is occurring in other countries as well.

Since June 2022, BA.5 has been responsible for the highest number of infections in the Netherlands. An increase in BA.4.6, BA.2.75 and BF.7 had already been observed over the past few weeks. More recently, the percentage of sub-variant BQ.1, including BQ.1.1, has been growing significantly. A recombinant (a variant that combines properties of various Omicron sub-variants) named XBB is also increasing. At this time, there are no indications that these sub-variants would be more likely to cause severe illness compared to previous Omicron sub-variants.

The latest calculations suggest that BQ.1 may soon become dominant in the Netherlands. These estimates always have some margin of uncertainty. It is also possible that multiple variants, including BQ.1 and XBB, will continue circulating at the same time. New variants or sub-variants may also emerge.

¹ As published 29 November 2022 in the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands.

² Reports by the Municipal Public Health Services (GGDs) to RIVM between 22 November 2022 10:01 and 29 November 2022 10:00.

³As published 22 November 2022 in the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands.

⁴ Reports by the Municipal Public Health Services (GGDs) to RIVM between 15 November 2022 10:01 and 22 November 2022  10:00.

⁵Not all patients admitted to hospital with the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 have COVID-19 as the main reason or one of the reasons for hospital admission. The hospital and ICU admissions for which it is known that admission was due to other reasons than a SARS-CoV-2 infection (category 3 in the admission reasons) are not counted here. For an explanation of the categories of admission reasons, see the RIVM graphs page, or the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands.

⁶ The number of unique survey participants reporting symptoms that could indicate COVID-19 per day who filled out a survey questionnaire, summed up for the entire calendar week (Monday through Sunday). This number is divided by the number of unique participants per day who filled out a survey questionnaire.

⁷The number of unique survey participants reporting a positive COVID-19 test per day, summed up for the entire calendar week (Monday through Sunday). The positive test result could come from a self-test, a PCR test or a rapid antigen test. These results are not from the nose and throat swabs sent in through the self-test study that started in September 2022.

⁸ Not all of these reported deaths occurred within the last week. The actual number of deaths is higher than the deaths that are reported in the surveillance. This is because there is no mandatory reporting requirement for death due to COVID-19. For that reason, the mortality figures presented here are underreported.

⁹ As published 29 November 2022 in the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands. The figures from the past week and current week may be updated to include any test results provided later. These figures only include tests of people who were tested in the GGD test lanes and does not include any tests that are required in order to travel.

¹⁰ For more information about the reproduction number, click here.

¹¹ The reproduction numbers (R) based on NICE data are calculated using hospital and ICU admissions due to COVID-19. These calculations do not include admissions registered by NICE after 25 January 2022 for any reason other than COVID-19.

¹² Based on data available at RIVM on Monday afternoon, 28 November 2022, as published in the open data. See the sewage surveillance updates on the Coronavirus Dashboard for the latest figures. See the explanation of the data presented for more details about how these figures are calculated.

¹³ In the first half of last week, between 1 and 3 samples were taken from each sampling location and analysed. The samples were taken on the Monday, Tuesday and/or Wednesday of that week.

¹⁴ Ideally, a total of 4 sewage samples from all 311 sampling locations would be taken and analysed in order to calculate the average for the previous week.

¹⁵ Number of people connected to the number of sampling locations on which the average is based. 

24 November 2022 | 13:00

Report: COVID-19 vaccination coverage in the Netherlands in 2021

RIVM has published a report on COVID-19 vaccination coverage in the Netherlands in 2021 (Dutch report, English synopsis). The report offers an overview of the methods and data sources that RIVM used to assess how many people in the Netherlands were vaccinated against COVID-19 in 2021. It explains which data was available and when, and how RIVM used the data to provide updates about vaccination coverage. 

The vaccination campaign against COVID-19 in the Netherlands started on 6 January 2021. Since 19 January 2021, RIVM has been publishing national and regional figures on COVID-19 vaccination on a weekly basis. RIVM also shares data with the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC).  This makes it possible to monitor vaccination coverage in the European Union. In addition, the Ministry of Health, Welfare and Sport (VWS) published data on the Coronavirus Dashboard provided by the national government of the Netherlands. 

Vaccination figures for autumn round of COVID-19 repeat vaccination

From 19 September up to and including 15 November 2022, 3.6 million repeat vaccinations against COVID-19 were administered. Vaccination coverage for the repeat vaccination among people over 60 has now reached 54.2%. 

Read more in the weekly update on COVID-19 vaccination figures. 

15 November 2022 | 16:00

Weekly update on the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2: 15 November 2022

As of 16 September 2022, the Coronavirus Dashboard provided by the national government also includes the coronavirus thermometer. The thermometer offers a visual representation of pressure on society and healthcare as a result of the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2. The coronavirus thermometer is based on the epidemiological situation and the associated RIVM analysis.

The RIVM Response Team advises coronavirus thermometer: status 2 – increased (Limited pressure on healthcare chain and society, but increased risks are expected for vulnerable groups)

Infection Radar, testing, and hospital and ICU admissions

In the Infection Radar survey, the percentage of participants who reported possible symptoms of COVID-19 last week decreased slightly compared to the week before that, dropping from +4.0% to +3.8%. The number of people who tested positive for COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2) reported to the Municipal Public Health Services (GGDs) decreased (-21%) last week compared to the week before that. The number of people who were tested for COVID-19 by the GGD also decreased (-24%). The number of nursing home residents who tested positive for COVID-19 decreased by 35% last week.

On 1 November 2022, the reproduction number based on reported positive tests was 0.79 (0.69 – 0.89). The number of new hospital admissions of patients with SARS-CoV-2 decreased (-21%) compared to the week before. The number of new ICU admissions of patients with SARS-CoV-2 also decreased. There were 22 ICU admissions last week (-33%), compared to 33 ICU admissions the week before.

Sewage surveillance

In week 43 (24-30 October 2022), sewage surveillance showed that the national average viral load decreased by 15%. In that week, the highest figures were seen in the regions of Zeeland and Haaglanden. In the first half of week 45 (7 – 9 November), the average number of virus particles continued to decrease, dropping by 31%. In the Amsterdam-Amstelland region, sewage surveillance figures rose significantly in the first half of week 45, reaching a high level compared to the rest of the Netherlands. Once again, the Omicron BA.5 variant and its sub-variants were detected most frequently: BF.7 is often observed, but BQ.1 has been increasingly rapidly in recent weeks.

Virus variants from pathogen surveillance

Since early 2022, RIVM has mainly observed many different sub-variants that belong to the Omicron family, specifically sub-variants BA.1 through BA.5, in the context of pathogen surveillance. Mutations are also emerging within these sub-variants. The same pattern is occurring in other countries as well.

An increase in BA.4.6, BA.2.75 and BF.7 had already been observed over the past few weeks. More recently, the percentage of sub-variant BQ.1, including BQ.1.1, has been growing significantly. Recombinant XBB has also been detected. At this time, there are no indications that these sub-variants would be more likely to cause severe illness compared to previous Omicron sub-variants.

The latest calculations suggest that BQ.1 may soon become dominant in the Netherlands. These estimates always have some margin of uncertainty. It is also possible that multiple variants, including BQ.1, will continue circulating at the same time. New variants or sub-variants may also emerge.

¹ As published 15 November 2022 in the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands.

² Reports by the Municipal Public Health Services (GGDs) to RIVM between 8 November 2022 10:01 and 15 November 2022 10:00.

³As published 8 November 2022 in the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands.

⁴ Reports by the Municipal Public Health Services (GGDs) to RIVM between 1 November 2022 10:01 and 8 November 2022  10:00.

⁵Not all patients admitted to hospital with the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 have COVID-19 as the main reason or one of the reasons for hospital admission. The hospital and ICU admissions for which it is known that admission was due to other reasons than a SARS-CoV-2 infection (category 3 in the admission reasons) are not counted here. For an explanation of the categories of admission reasons, see the RIVM graphs page, or the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands.

⁶ The number of unique survey participants reporting symptoms that could indicate COVID-19 per day who filled out a survey questionnaire, summed up for the entire calendar week (Monday through Sunday). This number is divided by the number of unique participants per day who filled out a survey questionnaire.

⁷The number of unique survey participants reporting a positive COVID-19 test per day, summed up for the entire calendar week (Monday through Sunday). The positive test result could come from a self-test, a PCR test or a rapid antigen test. These results are not from the nose and throat swabs sent in through the self-test study that started in September 2022.

⁸ Not all of these reported deaths occurred within the last week. The actual number of deaths is higher than the deaths that are reported in the surveillance. This is because there is no mandatory reporting requirement for death due to COVID-19. For that reason, the mortality figures presented here are underreported.

⁹ As published 15 November 2022 in the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands. The figures from the past week and current week may be updated to include any test results provided later. These figures only include tests of people who were tested in the GGD test lanes and does not include any tests that are required in order to travel.

¹⁰ For more information about the reproduction number, click here.

¹¹ The reproduction numbers (R) based on NICE data are calculated using hospital and ICU admissions due to COVID-19. These calculations do not include admissions registered by NICE after 25 January 2022 for any reason other than COVID-19.

¹² Based on data available at RIVM on Monday afternoon, 14 November 2022, as published in the open data. See the sewage surveillance updates on the Coronavirus Dashboard for the latest figures. See the explanation of the data presented for more details about how these figures are calculated.

¹³ In the first half of last week, between 1 and 3 samples were taken from each sampling location and analysed. The samples were taken on the Monday, Tuesday and/or Wednesday of that week.

¹⁴ Ideally, a total of 4 sewage samples from all 311 sampling locations would be taken and analysed in order to calculate the average for the previous week.

¹⁵ Number of people connected to the number of sampling locations on which the average is based. 

8 November 2022 | 16:00 

Risk of hospital admission nearly 3 times lower for over-60s with repeat vaccination in autumn 2022

In the period from 3 October 2022 through 2 November 2022, the risk of hospital admission for people over 60 who received the repeat vaccination against COVID-19 in the autumn round was about 2.7 times lower than for people who did not receive this vaccination, but were eligible to do so. The risk of ICU admission for people over 60 with a repeat vaccination in autumn 2022 was more than 2 times lower than for people who had had at least one previous vaccination.

Read more on the webpage Risk of hospital admission nearly 3 times lower for over-60s with repeat vaccination in autumn 2022

8 November 2022 | 16:00 

Vaccination figures for autumn round of COVID-19 repeat vaccination

From 19 September up to and including 6 November 2022, 3.4 million repeat vaccinations against COVID-19 were administered. Vaccination coverage for the repeat vaccination among people over 60 has now reached 52.1%. 

Read more in the weekly update on COVID-19 vaccination figures. 

8 November 2022 | 15:00

Weekly update on the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2: 8 November 2022

As of 16 September 2022, the Coronavirus Dashboard provided by the national government also includes the coronavirus thermometer. The thermometer offers a visual representation of pressure on society and healthcare as a result of the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2. The coronavirus thermometer is based on the epidemiological situation and the associated RIVM analysis.

The RIVM Response Team advises coronavirus thermometer: status 2 – increased (Limited pressure on healthcare chain and society, but increased risks are expected for vulnerable groups)

Infection Radar, testing, and hospital and ICU admissions

In the Infection Radar survey, the percentage of people who reported possible symptoms of COVID-19 last week decreased compared to the week before that, dropping from +4.4% to +4.0%. The number of people who tested positive for COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2) reported to the Municipal Public Health Services (GGDs) decreased (-37%) last week compared to the week before that. The number of people who were tested for COVID-19 by the GGD also decreased (-30%). The number of nursing home residents who tested positive for COVID-19 decreased by 34% last week.

On 25 October 2022, the reproduction number based on reported positive tests was 0.79 (0.71 – 0.88). The number of new hospital admissions of patients with SARS-CoV-2 decreased (-26%) compared to the week before. The number of new ICU admissions of patients with SARS-CoV-2also decreased.  There were 33 ICU admissions last week (-38%), compared to 53 ICU admissions the week before.

Sewage surveillance

In week 43 (24-30 October 2022), sewage surveillance showed that the national average viral load decreased by 27%, continuing to decrease by 26% in the first half of week 44 (31 October – 2 November). The highest figures were seen in Gooi- en Vechtstreek (week 43) and Zeeland (week 44), and figures were also high in Haaglanden in both weeks. Once again, the Omicron BA.5 variant and its sub-variants were detected most frequently, still including a high percentage of BF.7, but with a significant increase in BQ.1 in recent weeks.

Virus variants from pathogen surveillance

Since early 2022, RIVM has mainly observed many different sub-variants that belong to the Omicron family, specifically sub-variants BA.1 through BA.5, in the context of pathogen surveillance. But mutations are also emerging within these sub-variants. The same pattern is occurring in other countries as well.

Omicron BA.2 was initially dominant in the Netherlands, followed by BA.2; since June 2022, BA.5 has been responsible for the highest number of infections. By now, there are multiple sub-variants of BA.2, BA.4 and BA.5 that are being monitored more closely. From BA.2, we are seeing sub-variants BA.2.75 and BA.2.12.1. From BA.4, we are seeing sub-variant BA.4.6. And sub-variants of BA.5 include BF.7 and BQ.1 (as well as BQ.1.1). RIVM is also monitoring recombinant strains of variants, such as XBB, which combine characteristics of other variants.

An increase in BA.4.6, BA.2.75 and BF.7 had already been observed over the past few weeks. More recently, the percentage of sub-variant BQ.1, including BQ.1.1, has been growing significantly. Recombinant XBB has only been observed a few times so far. At this time, there are no indications that these sub-variants would be more likely to cause severe illness compared to previous Omicron sub-variants.

The latest calculations suggest that BQ.1 (including BQ.1.1) may become dominant in the Netherlands during this month. These estimates always have some margin of uncertainty. It is also possible that multiple variants, including BQ.1, will continue circulating at the same time. New variants or sub-variants may also emerge.

¹ As published 8 November 2022 in the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands.

² Reports by the Municipal Public Health Services (GGDs) to RIVM between 8 November 2022 10:01 and 8 November 2022 10:00.

³As published 8 November 2022 in the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands.

⁴ Reports by the Municipal Public Health Services (GGDs) to RIVM between 25 October 2022 10:01 and 8 November 2022  10:00.

⁵Not all patients admitted to hospital with the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 have COVID-19 as the main reason or one of the reasons for hospital admission. The hospital and ICU admissions for which it is known that admission was due to other reasons than a SARS-CoV-2 infection (category 3 in the admission reasons) are not counted here. For an explanation of the categories of admission reasons, see the RIVM graphs page, or the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands.

⁶ The number of unique survey participants reporting symptoms that could indicate COVID-19 per day who filled out a survey questionnaire, summed up for the entire calendar week (Monday through Sunday). This number is divided by the number of unique participants per day who filled out a survey questionnaire.

⁷The number of unique survey participants reporting a positive COVID-19 test per day, summed up for the entire calendar week (Monday through Sunday). The positive test result could come from a self-test, a PCR test or a rapid antigen test. These results are not from the nose and throat swabs sent in through the self-test study that started in September 2022.

⁸ Not all of these reported deaths occurred within the last week. The actual number of deaths is higher than the deaths that are reported in the surveillance. This is because there is no mandatory reporting requirement for death due to COVID-19. For that reason, the mortality figures presented here are underreported.

⁹ As published 8 November 2022 in the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands. The figures from the past week and current week may be updated to include any test results provided later. These figures only include tests of people who were tested in the GGD test lanes and does not include any tests that are required in order to travel.

¹⁰ For more information about the reproduction number, click here.

¹¹ The reproduction numbers (R) based on NICE data are calculated using hospital and ICU admissions due to COVID-19. These calculations do not include admissions registered by NICE after 25 January 2022 for any reason other than COVID-19.

¹² Based on data available at RIVM on Monday afternoon, 7 November 2022, as published in the open data. See the sewage surveillance updates on the Coronavirus Dashboard for the latest figures. See the explanation of the data presented for more details about how these figures are calculated.

¹³ In the first half of last week, between 1 and 3 samples were taken from each sampling location and analysed. The samples were taken on the Monday, Tuesday and/or Wednesday of that week.

¹⁴ Ideally, a total of 4 sewage samples from all 311 sampling locations would be taken and analysed in order to calculate the average for the previous week.

¹⁵ Number of people connected to the number of sampling locations on which the average is based. 

1 November 2022 | 16:30 

Vaccination figures for autumn round of COVID-19 repeat vaccination

From 19 September up to and including 30 October 2022, more than 3 million repeat vaccinations against COVID-19 were administered. Vaccination coverage for the repeat vaccination among people over 60 has now reached 48.7%. 

The repeat vaccination is available to everyone aged 12 years and older who has completed the basic series of COVID-19 vaccinations. The first invitations were sent to people aged 60 years and older or turning 60 this year, people in medical risk groups, and care workers who have contact with patients or clients. People can get the repeat vaccination starting from 3 months after their last COVID-19 vaccination or 3 months after a SARS-CoV-2 infection. 

Read more in the weekly update on COVID-19 vaccination figures.  

1 November 2022 | 15:30

Weekly update on the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2: 1 November 2022

As of 16 September 2022, the Coronavirus Dashboard provided by the national government also includes the coronavirus thermometer. The thermometer offers a visual representation of pressure on society and healthcare as a result of the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2. The coronavirus thermometer is based on the epidemiological situation and the associated RIVM analysis.

The RIVM Response Team advises coronavirus thermometer: status 2 – increased (Limited pressure on healthcare chain and society, but increased risks are expected for vulnerable groups)

Infection Radar, testing, and hospital and ICU admissions

In the Infection Radar survey,the percentage of people who reported possible symptoms of COVID-19 last week decreased (+4.4%) compared to the week before that (+5.0%). The number of people who tested positive for COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2) reported to the Municipal Public Health Services (GGDs) decreased (-30%) last week compared to the week before that. The number of people who were tested for COVID-19 by the GGD also decreased (-27%). The number of nursing home residents who tested positive for COVID-19 decreased by 40% last week.

On 18 October 2022, the reproduction number based on reported positive tests was 0.82 (0.75 – 0.89). The number of new hospital admissions of patients with SARS-CoV-2 decreased (-21%) compared to the week before. The number of new ICU admissions of patients with SARS-CoV-2 remained stable. There were 53 ICU admissions last week (+4%), compared to 51 ICU admissions the week before.

Sewage surveillance

In week 42 (17-23 October 2022), sewage surveillance showed that the national average viral load increased by 8%, decreasing by 17% in the first half of week 43 (24 – 26 October). In these weeks, the highest figures were seen in Haaglanden and in Gooi- en Vechtstreek. The Omicron BA.5 variant and its sub-variants were still detected most frequently in sewage surveillance, including a high percentage of BF.7 and a growing percentage of BQ.1. BA.4 sub-variants also continue to be observed.

Virus variants from pathogen surveillance

 RIVM has observed various Omicron sub-variants in pathogen surveillance. Since June 2022, BA.5 has been the dominant variant in the Netherlands.

Various sub-variants of BA.2, BA.4 and BA.5 are now present and under monitoring. This includes BA.2.75 and BA.2.12.1, BA.4.6, and various BA.5 sub-variants, such as BF.7, BQ.1 and BQ.1.1. Recombinant strains of variants, such as XBB, are also being monitored.

An increase in BA.4.6, BA.2.75 and BF.7 has been observed over the past few weeks. The percentage of sub-variant BQ.1, including BQ.1.1, is now also growing. Recombinant XBB has only been observed a few times so far.

Trend forecasts for various sub-variants based on the latest pathogen surveillance data show that BQ.1 may become dominant before the end of this year. However, these forecasts are still uncertain. It is also possible that multiple variants, including BQ.1, will continue circulating at the same time. These variants are being monitored and the trend forecasts are updated weekly based on new data from pathogen surveillance.

The sub-variants seem to have minor specific mutations in the spike protein that enable them to more easily evade the immunity built up against SARS-CoV-2 (by vaccination or previous infection). It is still too early to assess how much the new sub-variants will lead to a further increase in the number of SARS-CoV-2 infections, separate from any increase due to the seasonal effect.
 

¹ As published 1 November 2022 in the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands.

² Reports by the Municipal Public Health Services (GGDs) to RIVM between 25 October 2022 10:01 and 1 November 2022 10:00.

³As published 25 October 2022 in the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands.

⁴ Reports by the Municipal Public Health Services (GGDs) to RIVM between 18 October 2022 10:01 and 25 October 2022  10:00.

⁵Not all patients admitted to hospital with the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 have COVID-19 as the main reason or one of the reasons for hospital admission. The hospital and ICU admissions for which it is known that admission was due to other reasons than a SARS-CoV-2 infection (category 3 in the admission reasons) are not counted here. For an explanation of the categories of admission reasons, see the RIVM graphs page, or the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands.

⁶ The number of unique survey participants reporting symptoms that could indicate COVID-19 per day who filled out a survey questionnaire, summed up for the entire calendar week (Monday through Sunday). This number is divided by the number of unique participants per day who filled out a survey questionnaire.

⁷The number of unique survey participants reporting a positive COVID-19 test per day, summed up for the entire calendar week (Monday through Sunday). The positive test result could come from a self-test, a PCR test or a rapid antigen test. These results are not from the nose and throat swabs sent in through the self-test study that started in September 2022.

⁸ Not all of these reported deaths occurred within the last week. The actual number of deaths is higher than the deaths that are reported in the surveillance. This is because there is no mandatory reporting requirement for death due to COVID-19. For that reason, the mortality figures presented here are underreported.

⁹ As published 1 November 2022 in the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands. The figures from the past week and current week may be updated to include any test results provided later. These figures only include tests of people who were tested in the GGD test lanes and does not include any tests that are required in order to travel.

¹⁰ For more information about the reproduction number, click here.

¹¹ The reproduction numbers (R) based on NICE data are calculated using hospital and ICU admissions due to COVID-19. These calculations do not include admissions registered by NICE after 25 January 2022 for any reason other than COVID-19.

¹² Based on data available at RIVM on Monday afternoon, 31 October 2022, as published in the open data. See the sewage surveillance updates on the Coronavirus Dashboard for the latest figures. See the explanation of the data presented for more details about how these figures are calculated.

¹³ In the first half of last week, between 1 and 3 samples were taken from each sampling location and analysed. The samples were taken on the Monday, Tuesday and/or Wednesday of that week.

¹⁴ Ideally, a total of 4 sewage samples from all 311 sampling locations would be taken and analysed in order to calculate the average for the previous week.

¹⁵ Number of people connected to the number of sampling locations on which the average is based. 

 25 October 2022 | 16:00 

Vaccination figures for autumn round of COVID-19 repeat vaccination

From 19 September to 23 October 2022, nearly 2.5 million repeat vaccinations against COVID-19 were administered.  Last week, similar to the week before, most of the repeat vaccinations administered were in the age group of 60 years and older. Vaccination coverage for the repeat vaccination among people over 60 has now reached 42.4%.

Read more in the weekly update on COVID-19 vaccination figures. 

25 October 2022 | 15:55

Weekly update on the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2: 25 October 2022

As of 16 September 2022, the Coronavirus Dashboard provided by the national government also includes the coronavirus thermometer. The thermometer offers a visual representation of pressure on society and healthcare as a result of the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2. The coronavirus thermometer is based on the epidemiological situation and the associated RIVM analysis.

The RIVM Response Team advises coronavirus thermometer: status 2 – increased (Limited pressure on healthcare chain and society, but increased risks are expected for vulnerable groups)

Infection Radar, testing, and hospital and ICU admissions

In the Infection Radar survey, the percentage of people who reported possible symptoms of COVID-19 last week decreased slightly (+5.0%) compared to the week before that (+5.4%). The number of people who tested positive for COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2) reported to the Municipal Public Health Services (GGDs) decreased (-22%) last week compared to the week before that. The number of people who were tested for COVID-19 by the GGD also decreased (-19%). The number of nursing home residents who tested positive for COVID-19  decreased by 21% last week.

On 11 October 2022, the reproduction number based on reported positive tests was 0.91 (0.85 – 0.97). The number of new hospital admissions of patients with SARS-CoV-2 increased slightly (+6%) compared to the week before. The number of new ICU admissions of patients with SARS-CoV-2 increased slightly. There were 51 ICU admissions last week (+6%), compared to 48 ICU admissions the week before.

Sewage surveillance

In week 41 (10-16 October 2022), sewage surveillance showed that the national average viral load decreased by 8%, rising by 7% in the first half of week 42 (17 – 19 October). In both weeks, the highest figures were seen in Amsterdam and the surrounding area. The Omicron BA.5 variant and all its sub-variants were still detected most frequently in sewage surveillance, including a high percentage of BF.7 and a growing percentage of BQ.1. BA.4 also continues to be observed.

Virus variants from pathogen surveillance

 RIVM has observed various Omicron sub-variants in pathogen surveillance. Since June 2022, BA.5 has been the dominant variant in the Netherlands.

Various sub-variants of BA.2, BA.4 and BA.5 are now present and under monitoring. This includes BA.2.75 and BA.2.12.1, BA.4.6, and various BA.5 sub-variants, such as BF.7, BQ.1 and BQ.1.1. Recombinant strains of variants, such as XBB, are also being monitored.

Following an initial increase in the Omicron sub-variants BA.2.75 and BA.4.6, BF.7 has been slowly increasing in pathogen surveillance in recent weeks. The percentages of sub-variants BQ.1 and BQ.1.1 are now also growing, although the numbers remain limited for now. Variant XBB has only been observed a few times so far.

Based on the latest pathogen surveillance data, trend forecasts for these variants are very uncertain. Due to the current co-circulation of these variants, it is impossible to predict long-term trends at this point. In the short term, the percentages of BQ.1 and BQ.1.1 seem to be rising most rapidly. It is also possible that multiple variants, including BA.4.6, BF.7, BQ.1 and other BA.5 sub-variants, will continue circulating at the same time. These sub-variants are being monitored and the trend forecasts are updated weekly based on new data from pathogen surveillance.

These variants seem to be increasing slowly in the Netherlands and in a number of surrounding countries. The sub-variants seem to have minor specific mutations in the spike protein that enable them to more easily evade the immunity built up against SARS-CoV-2 (by vaccination or previous infection). It is still too early to assess how much the new sub-variants will lead to a further increase in the number of SARS-CoV-2 infections, separate from any increase due to the seasonal effect. 
 

¹ As published 25 October 2022 in the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands.

² Reports by the Municipal Public Health Services (GGDs) to RIVM between 18 October 2022 10:01 and 25 October 2022 10:00.

³As published 18 October 2022 in the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands.

⁴ Reports by the Municipal Public Health Services (GGDs) to RIVM between 11 October 2022 10:01 and 18 October 2022  10:00.

⁵Not all patients admitted to hospital with the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 have COVID-19 as the main reason or one of the reasons for hospital admission. The hospital and ICU admissions for which it is known that admission was due to other reasons than a SARS-CoV-2 infection (category 3 in the admission reasons) are not counted here. For an explanation of the categories of admission reasons, see the RIVM graphs page, or the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands.

⁶ The number of unique survey participants reporting symptoms that could indicate COVID-19 per day who filled out a survey questionnaire, summed up for the entire calendar week (Monday through Sunday). This number is divided by the number of unique participants per day who filled out a survey questionnaire.

⁷The number of unique survey participants reporting a positive COVID-19 test per day, summed up for the entire calendar week (Monday through Sunday). The positive test result could come from a self-test, a PCR test or a rapid antigen test. These results are not from the nose and throat swabs sent in through the self-test study that started in September 2022.

⁸ Not all of these reported deaths occurred within the last week. The actual number of deaths is higher than the deaths that are reported in the surveillance. This is because there is no mandatory reporting requirement for death due to COVID-19. For that reason, the mortality figures presented here are underreported.

⁹ As published 25 October 2022 in the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands. The figures from the past week and current week may be updated to include any test results provided later. These figures only include tests of people who were tested in the GGD test lanes and does not include any tests that are required in order to travel.

¹⁰ For more information about the reproduction number, click here.

¹¹ The reproduction numbers (R) based on NICE data are calculated using hospital and ICU admissions due to COVID-19. These calculations do not include admissions registered by NICE after 25 January 2022 for any reason other than COVID-19.

¹² Based on data available at RIVM on Monday afternoon, 24 October 2022, as published in the open data. See the sewage surveillance updates on the Coronavirus Dashboard for the latest figures. See the explanation of the data presented for more details about how these figures are calculated.

¹³ In the first half of last week, between 1 and 3 samples were taken from each sampling location and analysed. The samples were taken on the Monday, Tuesday and/or Wednesday of that week.

¹⁴ Ideally, a total of 4 sewage samples from all 311 sampling locations would be taken and analysed in order to calculate the average for the previous week.

¹⁵ Number of people connected to the number of sampling locations on which the average is based. 

18 October 2022 | 17:00 

Vaccination figures for autumn round of COVID-19 repeat vaccination

From 19 September to 16 October 2022, nearly 1.9 million repeat vaccinations against COVID-19 were administered. Most of the repeat vaccinations administered last week were in the age group of 60 years and older.  Vaccination coverage for the repeat vaccination among people over 60 has now reached 33.8%. Vaccination coverage among people over 70 is now 45.8%, and among people over 80 it has reached 45.5%.

Read more in the weekly update on COVID-19 vaccination figures.  

 18 October 2022 | 16:45

Weekly update on the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2: 18 October 2022

As of 16 September 2022, the Coronavirus Dashboard provided by the national government also includes the coronavirus thermometer. The thermometer offers a visual representation of pressure on society and healthcare as a result of the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2. The coronavirus thermometer is based on the epidemiological situation and the associated RIVM analysis.

The RIVM Response Team advises coronavirus thermometer: status 2 – increased (Limited pressure on healthcare chain and society, but increased risks are expected for vulnerable groups)

Sewage surveillance

In week 40 (3-9 October 2022), sewage surveillance showed that the national average viral load increased by 20%. In the first half of week 41 (10 – 12 October), the average number of virus particles decreased, dropping by +15%. In both weeks, the highest figures were seen in Amsterdam and the surrounding area. The Omicron BA.5 variant and all its sub-variants were still detected most frequently in sewage surveillance, and BA.4 was also observed more frequently again.

Virus variants from pathogen surveillance

 RIVM has observed various Omicron sub-variants in pathogen surveillance. Since June 2022, BA.5 has been the dominant variant in the Netherlands.

Various sub-variants of BA.2, BA.4 and BA.5 are now present and under monitoring. This includes BA.2.75 and BA.2.12.1, BA.4.6, and various BA.5 sub-variants, such as BF.7, BQ.1 and BQ.1.1. Recombinant strains of variants, such as XBB (twice so far, detected in pathogen surveillance in week 38), are also being monitored.

The percentages of BA.2.75 and BA.4.6 have been slowly increasing in pathogen surveillance in recent weeks. Trend forecasts for BA.4.6, BA.2.75 and sub-variants of BA.5 based on the latest pathogen surveillance data are very uncertain. Within the BA.5 lineage, several sub-variants are increasing (such as BQ.1, BQ.1.1 and BF.7), while other sub-variants are decreasing. It is also possible that multiple variants, including BA.2.75, BA.4.6 and other BA.5 sub-variants, will continue circulating at the same time. These Omicron sub-variants seem to have minor specific mutations in the spike protein that enable them to more easily evade the immunity built up against SARS-CoV-2 (by vaccination or previous infection).

It is still too early to assess whether the new sub-variants will lead to a further increase in the number of SARS-CoV-2 infections, separate from any increase due to the seasonal effect. These sub-variants seem to be increasing slowly in the Netherlands and in a number of surrounding countries.

Infection Radar, testing, and hospital and ICU admissions

In the Infection Radar survey, the percentage of people who reported possible symptoms of COVID-19 last week  decreased (+5.4%) compared to the week before that (+6.2%). The number of people who tested positive for COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2) reported to the Municipal Public Health Services (GGDs) stabilised (-4%) last week compared to the week before that. The number of people who were tested for COVID-19 by the GGD decreased slightly (-5%). The number of nursing home residents who tested positive for COVID-19 rose by 11% last week^1,3.

On 4 October 2022, the reproduction number based on reported positive tests was 0.97 (0.92 – 1.01). The number of new hospital admissions of patients with SARS-CoV-2 remained stable (-2%) compared to the week before. The number of new ICU admissions of patients with SARS-CoV-2 increased; there were 48 ICU admissions last week (+17%), compared to 41 ICU admissions the week before. 

¹ As published 18 October 2022 in the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands.

² Reports by the Municipal Public Health Services (GGDs) to RIVM between 11 October 2022 10:01 and 18 October 2022 10:00.

³As published 11 October 2022 in the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands.

⁴ Reports by the Municipal Public Health Services (GGDs) to RIVM between 4 October 2022 10:01 and 11 October 2022  10:00.

⁵Not all patients admitted to hospital with the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 have COVID-19 as the main reason or one of the reasons for hospital admission. The hospital and ICU admissions for which it is known that admission was due to other reasons than a SARS-CoV-2 infection (category 3 in the admission reasons) are not counted here. For an explanation of the categories of admission reasons, see the RIVM graphs page, or the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands.

⁶ The number of unique survey participants reporting symptoms that could indicate COVID-19 per day who filled out a survey questionnaire, summed up for the entire calendar week (Monday through Sunday). This number is divided by the number of unique participants per day who filled out a survey questionnaire.

⁷The number of unique survey participants reporting a positive COVID-19 test per day, summed up for the entire calendar week (Monday through Sunday). The positive test result could come from a self-test, a PCR test or a rapid antigen test. These results are not from the nose and throat swabs sent in through the self-test study that started in September 2022.

⁸ Not all of these reported deaths occurred within the last week. The actual number of deaths is higher than the deaths that are reported in the surveillance. This is because there is no mandatory reporting requirement for death due to COVID-19. For that reason, the mortality figures presented here are underreported.

⁹ As published 18 October 2022 in the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands. The figures from the past week and current week may be updated to include any test results provided later. These figures only include tests of people who were tested in the GGD test lanes and does not include any tests that are required in order to travel.

¹⁰ For more information about the reproduction number, click here.

¹¹ The reproduction numbers (R) based on NICE data are calculated using hospital and ICU admissions due to COVID-19. These calculations do not include admissions registered by NICE after 25 January 2022 for any reason other than COVID-19.

¹² Based on data available at RIVM on Monday afternoon, 17 October 2022, as published in the open data. See the sewage surveillance updates on the Coronavirus Dashboard for the latest figures. See the explanation of the data presented for more details about how these figures are calculated.

¹³ In the first half of last week, between 1 and 3 samples were taken from each sampling location and analysed. The samples were taken on the Monday, Tuesday and/or Wednesday of that week.

¹⁴ Ideally, a total of 4 sewage samples from all 311 sampling locations would be taken and analysed in order to calculate the average for the previous week.

¹⁵ Number of people connected to the number of sampling locations on which the average is based. 

11 October 2022 | 17:00 

Vaccination figures for autumn round of COVID-19 repeat vaccination

From 19 September to 9 October 2022, more than 1.2 million repeat vaccinations against COVID-19 were administered. Most of the repeat vaccinations administered last week were in the age group of 70 years and older Vaccination coverage for the repeat vaccination among people over 70 has now reached 36.2%, and among people over 70 it is now 38.1%.

Read more in the weekly update on COVID-19 vaccination figures.  

11 October 2022 | 16:10

Weekly update on the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2: 11 October 2022

Read the news: Upward trend in COVID-19 figures continues: extra risk for vulnerable groups

As of 16 September 2022, the Coronavirus Dashboard provided by the national government also includes the coronavirus thermometer. The thermometer offers a visual representation of pressure on society and healthcare as a result of the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2. The coronavirus thermometer is based on the epidemiological situation and the associated RIVM analysis.

The RIVM Response Team advises coronavirus thermometer: status 2 – increased (Limited pressure on healthcare chain and society, but increased risks are expected for vulnerable groups)

Sewage surveillance

In week 39 (26 September – 2 October 2022), sewage surveillance showed that the national average viral load increased significantly compared to the previous week, rising by 75%. In the first half of week 40 (3 – 5 September), the average number of virus particles continue to increase, rising by +18%. The Omicron BA.5 variant and all its sub-variants are still detected most frequently in sewage surveillance, and BA.4 was also observed more frequently again.

Virus variants from pathogen surveillance

 RIVM has observed various Omicron sub-variants in pathogen surveillance. Since June 2022, BA.5 has been the dominant variant in the Netherlands. At this point, pathogen surveillance shows that the percentages of BA.2.75 and BA.4.6 are slowly increasing. BA.4.6, BA.2.75 and several sub-variants of BA.5 seem to have minor specific mutations that enable them to more easily evade the immunity built up against COVID-19 (by vaccination or previous infection). It is still too early to assess whether the new sub-variants will lead to a further increase in the number of SARS-CoV-2 infections, separate from the expected increase due to the seasonal effect. This sub-variants seem to be increasing slowly in the Netherlands and in a number of surrounding countries.

Infection Radar, testing, and hospital and ICU admissions

In the Infection Radar survey, the percentage of people who reported possible symptoms of COVID-19 last week (6.2%) was about the same as the week before that (6.0%). The number of people who tested positive for COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2) reported to the Municipal Public Health Services (GGDs) increased (+24%) last week compared to the week before that. The number of people who were tested for COVID-19 by the GGD also increased(+31%). On 27 September 2022, the reproduction number based on reported positive tests was 1.13 (1.07 – 1.19). The number of new hospital admissions of patients with SARS-CoV-2 increased (+24%) compared to the week before. The number of new ICU admissions of patients with SARS-CoV-2 increased slightly; there were 41 ICU admissions last week (+8%), compared to 38 ICU admissions the week before.

¹ As published 11 October 2022 in the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands.

² Reports by the Municipal Public Health Services (GGDs) to RIVM between 4  October 2022 10:01 and 11 October 2022 10:00.

³As published 24 October 2022 in the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands.

⁴ Reports by the Municipal Public Health Services (GGDs) to RIVM between 27 September 2022 10:01 and 4 Octber 2022  10:00.

⁵Not all patients admitted to hospital with the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 have COVID-19 as the main reason or one of the reasons for hospital admission. The hospital and ICU admissions for which it is known that admission was due to other reasons than a SARS-CoV-2 infection (category 3 in the admission reasons) are not counted here. For an explanation of the categories of admission reasons, see the RIVM graphs page, or the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands.

⁶ The number of unique survey participants reporting symptoms that could indicate COVID-19 per day who filled out a survey questionnaire, summed up for the entire calendar week (Monday through Sunday). This number is divided by the number of unique participants per day who filled out a survey questionnaire.

⁷ Not all of these reported deaths occurred within the last week. The actual number of deaths is higher than the deaths that are reported in the surveillance. This is because there is no mandatory reporting requirement for death due to COVID-19. For that reason, the mortality figures presented here are underreported.

8 As published 11 October 2022 in the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands. The figures from the past week and current week may be updated to include any test results provided later. These figures only include tests of people who were tested in the GGD test lanes and does not include any tests that are required in order to travel.

⁹ For more information about the reproduction number, click here.

10 The reproduction numbers (R) based on NICE data are calculated using hospital and ICU admissions due to COVID-19. These calculations do not include admissions registered by NICE after 25 January 2022 for any reason other than COVID-19.

¹¹ Based on data available at RIVM on Monday afternoon, 10 October 2022, as published in the open data. See the sewage surveillance updates on the Coronavirus Dashboard for the latest figures. See the explanation of the data presented for more details about how these figures are calculated.

¹² In the first half of last week, between 1 and 3 samples were taken from each sampling location and analysed. The samples were taken on the Monday, Tuesday and/or Wednesday of that week.

¹³ Ideally, a total of 4 sewage samples from all 311 sampling locations would be taken and analysed in order to calculate the average for the previous week.

¹⁴ Number of people connected to the number of sampling locations on which the average is based. 

4 October 2022 | 16:30 

Vaccination figures for autumn round of COVID-19 repeat vaccination

From 19 September to 2 October 2022, more than 709,600 repeat vaccinations against COVID-19 were administered. Most of the repeat vaccinations administered last week were in the age group of 70 years and older. Vaccination coverage for the repeat vaccination among people over 70 has now reached 22.1%.

Read more in the weekly update on COVID-19 vaccination figures.  

4 October 2022 | 17:30

Weekly update on the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2: 4 October 2022

As of 16 September 2022, the Coronavirus Dashboard provided by the national government also includes the coronavirus thermometer. The thermometer offers a visual representation of pressure on society and healthcare as a result of the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2. The coronavirus thermometer is based on the epidemiological situation and the associated RIVM analysis.

The RIVM Response Team advises coronavirus thermometer: status 1 - low 

Sewage surveillance

In week 38 (19–25 September 2022), sewage surveillance showed that the national average viral load rose by 24% compared to the previous week. In the first half of week 39 (26–28 September 2022), the average number of virus particles continued to increase, rising by 55%. The BA.5 Omicron sub-variant is still detected most frequently in sewage surveillance.

Virus variants from pathogen surveillance

Pathogen surveillance shows the same trend as last week.

Based on pathogen surveillance, there appears to be an increase in two Omicron sub-variants: BA4.6 and BA2.75. The trend forecasts are updated weekly based on new data from pathogen surveillance. RIVM will continue monitoring the situation as it develops.

Infection Radar, testing, and hospital and ICU admissions

In the Infection Radar survey, the percentage of people who reported possible symptoms of COVID-19 last week increased again (+6.0%) compared to the week before that (+4.6%). The number of people who tested positive for COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2) reported to the Municipal Public Health Services (GGDs) increased (+55%) last week compared to the week before that. The number of people who were tested for COVID-19 by the GGD also increased (+47%). On 20 September 2022, the reproduction number based on reported positive tests was 1.18 (1.11 – 1.25). The number of new hospital admissions of patients with SARS-CoV-2 increased significantly (+68%) compared to the week before. The number of new ICU admissions of patients with SARS-CoV-2 more than doubled; there were 38 ICU admissions last week (+138%), compared to 16 ICU admissions the week before.

¹ As published 4 October 2022 in the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands.

² Reports by the Municipal Public Health Services (GGDs) to RIVM between 27 September 2022 10:01 and 4 October 2022 10:00.

³As published 27 September 2022 in the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands.

⁴ Reports by the Municipal Public Health Services (GGDs) to RIVM between 20 September 2022 10:01 and 27 September 2022  10:00.

⁵Not all patients admitted to hospital with the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 have COVID-19 as the main reason or one of the reasons for hospital admission. The hospital and ICU admissions for which it is known that admission was due to other reasons than a SARS-CoV-2 infection (category 3 in the admission reasons) are not counted here. For an explanation of the categories of admission reasons, see the RIVM graphs page, or the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands.

⁶ The number of unique survey participants reporting symptoms that could indicate COVID-19 per day who filled out a survey questionnaire, summed up for the entire calendar week (Monday through Sunday). This number is divided by the number of unique participants per day who filled out a survey questionnaire.

⁷ Not all of these reported deaths occurred within the last week. The actual number of deaths is higher than the deaths that are reported in the surveillance. This is because there is no mandatory reporting requirement for death due to COVID-19. For that reason, the mortality figures presented here are underreported.

8 As published 4 October 2022 in the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands. The figures from the past week and current week may be updated to include any test results provided later. These figures only include tests of people who were tested in the GGD test lanes and does not include any tests that are required in order to travel.

⁹ For more information about the reproduction number, click here.

10 The reproduction numbers (R) based on NICE data are calculated using hospital and ICU admissions due to COVID-19. These calculations do not include admissions registered by NICE after 25 January 2022 for any reason other than COVID-19.

¹¹ Based on data available at RIVM on Monday afternoon, 3 October 2022, as published in the open data. See the sewage surveillance updates on the Coronavirus Dashboard for the latest figures. See the explanation of the data presented for more details about how these figures are calculated.

¹² In the first half of last week, between 1 and 3 samples were taken from each sampling location and analysed. The samples were taken on the Monday, Tuesday and/or Wednesday of that week.

¹³ Ideally, a total of 4 sewage samples from all 311 sampling locations would be taken and analysed in order to calculate the average for the previous week.

¹⁴ Number of people connected to the number of sampling locations on which the average is based. 

27 September 2022 | 17:00

Weekly update on the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2: 27 September 2022

As of 16 September 2022, the Coronavirus Dashboard provided by the national government also includes the coronavirus thermometer. The thermometer offers a visual representation of pressure on society and healthcare as a result of the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2. The coronavirus thermometer is based on the epidemiological situation and the associated RIVM analysis.

The RIVM Response Team advises coronavirus thermometer: status 1 - low 

As of 17 May 2022, expanded information about the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 is provided on this page. In addition to figures on positive tests and hospital admissions, the page also includes information from the Infection Radar surveys, sewage surveillance and pathogen surveillance.

Infection Radar, testing, and hospital and ICU admissions

In the Infection Radar survey, the percentage of people who reported possible symptoms of COVID-19 last week increased again (+4.6%) compared to the week before that (+3.1%). The number of people who tested positive for COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2) reported to the Municipal Public Health Services (GGDs) increased (+39%) last week compared to the week before that. The number of people who were tested for COVID-19 by the GGD also increased (+27%). On 13 September 2022, the reproduction number based on reported positive tests was 1.03 (0.96 – 1.11). The number of new hospital admissions of patients with SARS-CoV-2 increased significantly (+34%) compared to the week before. The number of new ICU admissions of patients with SARS-CoV-2 remained relatively low; there were 16 ICU admissions last week (-11%), compared to 18 ICU admissions the week before.

Sewage surveillance

In week 37 (12–18 September 2022), the national average viral load remained about the same as last week, rising very slightly (+0.3%). Compared to the other regions, sewage surveillance figures were highest in and around Amsterdam and in Limburg-Noord. A similar trend was observed in the first half of week 38 (19–21 September), resulting in a minor increase (+6.3%). Sewage surveillance figures were highest in IJsselland and Kennemerland. The BA.5 Omicron sub-variant is still detected most frequently in sewage surveillance.

Virus variants from pathogen surveillance

So far, the Omicron variant has five sub-variants that are currently being monitored closely. These have been designated BA.1, BA.2 (including sub-variants BA.2.12.1 and BA.2.75), BA.3, BA.4 and BA.5. 

According to the WHO, these variants do not appear to cause more serious illness than the BA.2 variant that was recently most prevalent in the Netherlands. However, there are indications that antibodies may be less effective against these variants. 

Sub-variant BA.5 became dominant in the Netherlands in June 2022. The percentage of these and other variants is being monitored in the context of pathogen surveillance and by means of variant PCR.

Since July 2022, various countries have recently observed a new sub-variant of the Omicron BA.2 lineage: BA.2.75. This sub-variant has been found in India, Australia, Japan, Canada, the USA, Germany, Denmark and the UK, among other countries. BA.2.75 has been increasing recently in pathogen surveillance in the Netherlands. It is too early to say whether this will lead to an increase in the number of infections. BA.2.75 seems to have minor specific mutations that enable it to more easily evade the immunity built up against COVID-19 (by vaccination or previous infection). There are no indications that the BA.2.75 sub-variant would be more likely to cause severe illness compared to the other Omicron sub-variants. This sub-variant seems to be increasing slowly in the Netherlands and in the surrounding countries. RIVM will continue monitoring the situation.

Based on the latest pathogen surveillance data, trend forecasts for BA.2.75 suggest that this sub-variant may become dominant in the Netherlands later this year. However, the margins of uncertainty are still very significant. These trend forecasts are updated weekly based on new data from pathogen surveillance. 

¹ As published 27 September 2022 in the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands.

² Reports by the Municipal Public Health Services (GGDs) to RIVM between 20 September 2022 10:01 and 27 September2022 10:00.

³As published 20 September 2022 in the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands.

⁴ Reports by the Municipal Public Health Services (GGDs) to RIVM between 13 September 2022 10:01 and 20 September 2022  10:00.

⁵Not all patients admitted to hospital with the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 have COVID-19 as the main reason or one of the reasons for hospital admission. The hospital and ICU admissions for which it is known that admission was due to other reasons than a SARS-CoV-2 infection (category 3 in the admission reasons) are not counted here. For an explanation of the categories of admission reasons, see the RIVM graphs page, or the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands.

⁶ The number of unique survey participants reporting symptoms that could indicate COVID-19 per day who filled out a survey questionnaire, summed up for the entire calendar week (Monday through Sunday). This number is divided by the number of unique participants per day who filled out a survey questionnaire.

⁷ Not all of these reported deaths occurred within the last week. The actual number of deaths is higher than the deaths that are reported in the surveillance. This is because there is no mandatory reporting requirement for death due to COVID-19. For that reason, the mortality figures presented here are underreported.

⁸ As published 27 September 2022 in the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands. The figures from the past week and current week may be updated to include any test results provided later. These figures only include tests of people who were tested in the GGD test lanes and does not include any tests that are required in order to travel.

⁹ For more information about the reproduction number, click here.

10 The reproduction numbers (R) based on NICE data are calculated using hospital and ICU admissions due to COVID-19. These calculations do not include admissions registered by NICE after 25 January 2022 for any reason other than COVID-19.

¹¹ Based on data available at RIVM on Monday afternoon, 26 September 2022, as published in the open data. See the sewage surveillance updates on the Coronavirus Dashboard for the latest figures. See the explanation of the data presented for more details about how these figures are calculated.

¹² In the first half of last week, between 1 and 3 samples were taken from each sampling location and analysed. The samples were taken on the Monday, Tuesday and/or Wednesday of that week.

¹³ Ideally, a total of 4 sewage samples from all 311 sampling locations would be taken and analysed in order to calculate the average for the previous week.

¹⁴ Number of people connected to the number of sampling locations on which the average is based. 

Read the news: Autumn wave of COVID-19 may be starting: vaccination and testing are key 

27 September 2022 | 16:45 

First vaccination figures for autumn round of COVID-19 repeat vaccination

From this week on, RIVM will start posting updates on vaccination figures for the autumn round of the repeat vaccination against COVID-19. The autumn round started last week, on 19 September 2022. Up to and including Sunday 25 September, more than 261,500 repeat vaccinations had been administered in the autumn round. Most of the repeat vaccinations administered last week were in the age group of 80 years and older. Vaccination coverage for the repeat vaccination among people over 80 has now reached 11.9%.

Read more in the weekly update on COVID-19 vaccination figures.  

20 September 2022 | 16:15

Weekly update on the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2: 20 September 2022

As of 17 May 2022, expanded information about the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 is provided on this page. In addition to figures on positive tests and hospital admissions, the page also includes information from the Infection Radar surveys, sewage surveillance and pathogen surveillance.

Infection Radar, testing, and hospital and ICU admissions

In the Infection Radar survey, the percentage of people who reported possible symptoms of COVID-19 last week increased again (+3.1%) compared to the week before that (+2.4%). The number of people who tested positive for COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2) reported to the Municipal Public Health Services (GGDs) increased slightly (+6%) compared to the week before that. The number of people who were tested for COVID-19 by the GGD also increased slightly (+8%). On 6 September 2022, the reproduction number based on reported positive tests was 0.97 (0.91 – 1.04). The number of new hospital admissions of patients with SARS-CoV-2 was stable (-3%) compared to the week before. The number of new ICU admissions of patients with SARS-CoV-2 remained relatively low; there were 18 ICU admissions last week (+13%), compared to 16 ICU admissions the week before.

Sewage surveillance

In sewage surveillance, the national average viral load increased (+21.2%) in week 36 (5 – 11 September 2022), but decreased again (-22.6%) in the first half of week 37 (12 – 14 September). The regions that showed the biggest increase (Brabant-Noord) or the highest sewage surveillance figures (Gooi- en Vechtstreek, Brabant-Zuidoost) in week 36 also showed the biggest decrease in the first half of week 37. The BA.5 Omicron sub-variant is still observed most frequently in sewage surveillance. One sample was found to contain a Delta variant, and one sample contained the Omicron BA.2.75 variant.

Virus variants from pathogen surveillance

So far, the Omicron variant has five sub-variants that are currently being monitored closely. These have been designated BA.1, BA.2 (including sub-variants BA.2.12.1 and BA.2.75), BA.3, BA.4 and BA.5. 

According to the WHO, these variants do not appear to cause more serious illness than the BA.2 variant that was recently most prevalent in the Netherlands. However, there are indications that antibodies may be less effective against these variants. 

Sub-variant BA.5 became dominant in the Netherlands in June 2022. The percentage of these and other variants is being monitored in the context of pathogen surveillance and by means of variant PCR.

Since July 2022, various countries have recently observed a new sub-variant of the Omicron BA.2 lineage: BA.2.75. This sub-variant has been found in India, Australia, Japan, Canada, the USA, Germany, Denmark and the UK, among other countries. BA.2.75 has been increasing recently in pathogen surveillance in the Netherlands. It is too early to say whether this will lead to an increase in the number of infections. BA.2.75 seems to have minor specific mutations that enable it to more easily evade the immunity built up against COVID-19 (by vaccination or previous infection). There are no indications that the BA.2.75 sub-variant would be more likely to cause severe illness compared to the other Omicron sub-variants. This sub-variant seems to be increasing slowly in the Netherlands and in the surrounding countries. RIVM will continue monitoring the situation.

Based on the latest pathogen surveillance data, trend forecasts for BA.2.75 suggest that this sub-variant may become dominant in the Netherlands later this year. However, the margins of uncertainty are still very significant. These trend forecasts are updated weekly based on new data from pathogen surveillance. 

¹ As published 20 September 2022 in the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands.

² Reports by the Municipal Public Health Services (GGDs) to RIVM between 13 September 2022 10:01 and 20 September2022 10:00.

³As published 13 September 2022 in the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands.

⁴ Reports by the Municipal Public Health Services (GGDs) to RIVM between 6 September 2022 10:01 and 13 September 2022  10:00.

⁵Not all patients admitted to hospital with the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 have COVID-19 as the main reason or one of the reasons for hospital admission. The hospital and ICU admissions for which it is known that admission was due to other reasons than a SARS-CoV-2 infection (category 3 in the admission reasons) are not counted here. For an explanation of the categories of admission reasons, see the RIVM graphs page, or the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands.

⁶ Not all of these reported deaths occurred within the last week. The actual number of deaths is higher than the deaths that are reported in the surveillance. This is because there is no mandatory reporting requirement for death due to COVID-19. For that reason, the mortality figures presented here are underreported.

⁷ As published 20 September 2022 in the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands. The figures from the past week and current week may be updated to include any test results provided later. These figures only include tests of people who were tested in the GGD test lanes and does not include any tests that are required in order to travel.

⁸ For more information about the reproduction number, click here.

⁹ The reproduction numbers (R) based on NICE data are calculated using hospital and ICU admissions due to COVID-19. These calculations do not include admissions registered by NICE after 25 January 2022 for any reason other than COVID-19.

10 Based on data available at RIVM on Monday afternoon, 19 September 2022, as published in the open data. See the sewage surveillance updates on the Coronavirus Dashboard for the latest figures. See the explanation of the data presented for more details about how these figures are calculated.

11 In the first half of last week, between 1 and 3 samples were taken from each sampling location and analysed. The samples were taken on the Monday, Tuesday and/or Wednesday of that week.

12 Ideally, a total of 4 sewage samples from all 311 sampling locations would be taken and analysed in order to calculate the average for the previous week.

13 Number of people connected to the number of sampling locations on which the average is based. 

13 September 2022 | 15:55

Vaccination figures: 5 to 11 September 2022

The data flow between GGD-GHOR and RIVM is temporarily on hold. This is due to the preparations for data transfer related to the vaccinations in autumn 2022. Data publication is expected to resume in 1 to 2 weeks.

13 September 2022 | 15:50

Weekly update on the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2: 13 September 2022

As of 17 May 2022, expanded information about the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 is provided on this page. In addition to figures on positive tests and hospital admissions, the page also includes information from the Infection Radar surveys, sewage surveillance and pathogen surveillance.

Infection Radar, testing, and hospital and ICU admissions

In the Infection Radar survey, the percentage of people who reported possible symptoms of COVID-19 last week increased (+2.4%) compared to the week before that (+1.9%). The number of people who tested positive for COVID-19 (confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection) reported to the Municipal Public Health Services (GGDs) increased slightly (+6%) compared to the week before that. The number of people who were tested for COVID-19 by the GGD increased slightly (+6%). On 30 August 2022, the reproduction number based on reported positive tests was 1.04 (0.96 – 1.11). The number of new hospital admissions of patients with SARS-CoV-2 increased (+16%) compared to the week before. The number of new ICU admissions of patients with SARS-CoV-2 remained relatively low; there were 16 ICU admissions last week (+7%), compared to 15 ICU admissions the week before.

Sewage surveillance

In sewage surveillance, the national average viral load in week 35 (29 August – 4 September 2022) increased slightly, rising by +4.4%. A significant increase was observed in Brabant-Zuidoost, which also saw the highest figures in sewage surveillance in that period. In the first half of week 36 (5 – 7 September), the average number of virus particles increased, rising by +29.1%. A significant increase was observed in Brabant-Noord, and the highest figures in sewage surveillance were seen in Gooi- en Vechtstreek. The BA.5 Omicron sub-variant is still observed most frequently, and various samples contained characteristic mutations that had previously been found in the Delta variant.

Virus variants from pathogen surveillance

So far, the Omicron variant has five sub-variants that are currently being monitored closely. These have been designated BA.1, BA.2 (including sub-variants BA.2.12.1 and BA.2.75), BA.3, BA.4 and BA.5. 

According to the WHO, these variants do not appear to cause more serious illness than the BA.2 variant that was recently most prevalent in the Netherlands. However, there are indications that antibodies may be less effective against these variants. 

Sub-variant BA.5 became dominant in the Netherlands in June 2022. The percentage of these and other variants is being monitored in the context of pathogen surveillance and by means of variant PCR.

Since July 2022, various countries have recently observed a new sub-variant of the Omicron BA.2 lineage: BA.2.75. This sub-variant has been found in India, Australia, Japan, Canada, the USA, Germany, Denmark and the UK, among other countries. BA.2.75 has been increasing recently in pathogen surveillance in the Netherlands. It is too early to say whether this will lead to an increase in the number of infections. BA.2.75 seems to have minor specific mutations that enable it to more easily evade the immunity built up against COVID-19 (by vaccination or previous infection). There are no indications that the BA.2.75 sub-variant would be more likely to cause severe illness compared to the other Omicron sub-variants. This sub-variant seems to be increasing slowly in the Netherlands and in the surrounding countries. RIVM will continue monitoring the situation.

Based on the latest pathogen surveillance data, trend forecasts for BA.2.75 suggest that this sub-variant may become dominant in the Netherlands later this year. However, the margins of uncertainty are still very significant. These trend forecasts are updated weekly based on new data from pathogen surveillance. 

The increase in specific variants is also being monitored in cooperation with Saltro by means of variant PCR. Variant PCR data can be accessed a bit sooner than sequencing from pathogen surveillance. Variant PCR data offers an indication for whether the BA.4/5 sub-variants are present, although this method does not detect their presence with certainty. It also does not show the differences between BA.4 and BA.5. The data also offers an indication for whether BA.2.75 is present. The latest trend forecast indicates that BA.4/5 will decrease, accompanied by an increase in other variants, such as BA.2.75. The margins of uncertainty in this forecast are still significant. 

The data comes from various GGD regions, but (in contrast to pathogen surveillance data) the results do not provide a national overview. Pathogen surveillance data and variant PCR data show the same trends for the percentage of BA.4/BA.5. Saltro’s variant PCR data shows that the combined percentage of BA.4/BA.5 became dominant in early June.

¹ As published 13 September 2022 in the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands.

² Reports by the Municipal Public Health Services (GGDs) to RIVM between 6 September 2022 10:01 and 13 September2022 10:00.

³As published 6 September 2022 in the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands.

⁴ Reports by the Municipal Public Health Services (GGDs) to RIVM between 30 August 2022 10:01 and 6 September 2022  10:00.

⁵Not all patients admitted to hospital with the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 have COVID-19 as the main reason or one of the reasons for hospital admission. The hospital and ICU admissions for which it is known that admission was due to other reasons than a SARS-CoV-2 infection (category 3 in the admission reasons) are not counted here. For an explanation of the categories of admission reasons, see the RIVM graphs page, or the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands.

⁶ Not all of these reported deaths occurred within the last week. The actual number of deaths is higher than the deaths that are reported in the surveillance. This is because there is no mandatory reporting requirement for death due to COVID-19. For that reason, the mortality figures presented here are underreported.

⁷ As published 13 September 2022 in the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands. The figures from the past week and current week may be updated to include any test results provided later. These figures only include tests of people who were tested in the GGD test lanes and does not include any tests that are required in order to travel.

⁸ For more information about the reproduction number, click here.

⁹ The reproduction numbers (R) based on NICE data are calculated using hospital and ICU admissions due to COVID-19. These calculations do not include admissions registered by NICE after 25 January 2022 for any reason other than COVID-19.

10 Based on data available at RIVM on Monday afternoon, 12 September 2022, as published in the open data. See the sewage surveillance updates on the Coronavirus Dashboard for the latest figures. See the explanation of the data presented for more details about how these figures are calculated.

11 In the first half of last week, between 1 and 3 samples were taken from each sampling location and analysed. The samples were taken on the Monday, Tuesday and/or Wednesday of that week.

12 Ideally, a total of 4 sewage samples from all 311 sampling locations would be taken and analysed in order to calculate the average for the previous week.

13 Number of people connected to the number of sampling locations on which the average is based. 

6 September 2022 | 16:00

Vaccination figures: 29 August to 4 September 2022

Up to and including Sunday 4 September, almost 2.7 million repeat vaccinations had been administered. People aged 60 years and older, people living in nursing homes, and people with severely impaired immunity are eligible to get a repeat vaccination against COVID-19 three months after their booster jab or three months after a SARS-CoV-2 infection. Vaccination coverage for the repeat vaccination among people over 60 has now reached 54,4%.

Read more in the weekly update on COVID-19 vaccination figures.  

6 September 2022 | 15:40

Weekly update on the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2: 6 September 2022

As of 17 May 2022, expanded information about the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 is provided on this page. In addition to figures on positive tests and hospital admissions, the page also includes information from the Infection Radar surveys, sewage surveillance and pathogen surveillance.

Infection Radar, testing, and hospital and ICU admissions

In the Infection Radar survey, the percentage of people who reported possible symptoms of COVID-19 last week increased slightly (+1.9%) compared to the week before that (+1.6%). The number of people who tested positive for COVID-19 reported to the Municipal Public Health Services (GGDs) remained the same (+2%) compared to the week before that. The number of people who were tested for COVID-19 by the GGD remained the same (+3%). On 23 August 2022, the reproduction number based on reported positive tests was 0.95 (0.88 – 1.02). The number of new hospital admissions of patients with SARS-CoV-2 decreased ( 22%) compared to the week before. The number of new ICU admissions of patients with SARS-CoV-2 remained relatively low,  dropping to 15 ICU admissions last week (‑26%), compared to 20 ICU admissions the week before.

Sewage surveillance

In sewage surveillance, the national average viral load decreased slightly in week 34 (22 – 28 August 2022) and the first half of week 35 (29 – 31 August), dropping by ‑8.7% and ‑11.8% respectively. The average number of virus particles was highest in and around Amsterdam and The Hague in week 34, and in Brabant-Zuidoost in the first half of week 35 (based on preliminary figures). The BA.5 Omicron sub-variant is still observed most frequently.

Virus variants from pathogen surveillance

So far, the Omicron variant has five sub-variants that are currently being monitored closely. These have been designated BA.1, BA.2 (including sub-variants BA.2.12.1 and BA.2.75), BA.3, BA.4 and BA.5. 

Since June 2022, Omicron BA.5 has been the dominant variant in the Netherlands (>90% of the tested samples since week 29). According to the WHO, these variants do not appear to cause more serious illness than the BA.2 variant that was recently most prevalent in the Netherlands. However, there are indications that antibodies may be less effective against these variants. 

Since July 2022, various countries have recently observed a new sub-variant of the Omicron BA.2 lineage: BA.2.75. This sub-variant has been found in India, Australia, Japan, Canada, the USA, Germany, Denmark and the UK, among other countries. BA.2.75 has been increasing recently in pathogen surveillance in the Netherlands. It is too early to say whether this will lead to an increase in the number of infections. BA.2.75 seems to have minor specific mutations that enable it to more easily evade the immunity built up against COVID-19 (by vaccination or previous infection). There are no indications that the BA.2.75 sub-variant would be more likely to cause severe illness compared to the other Omicron sub-variants. This sub-variant seems to be increasing slowly in the Netherlands and in the surrounding countries. RIVM will continue monitoring the situation.

Based on the latest pathogen surveillance data, trend forecasts for BA.2.75 suggest that this sub-variant may become dominant in the Netherlands in October 2022. However, the margins of uncertainty are still very significant. These trend forecasts are updated weekly based on new data from pathogen surveillance. The increase in specific variants is also being monitored in cooperation with Saltro by means of variant PCR. Variant PCR data can be accessed a bit sooner than sequencing from pathogen surveillance. Variant PCR data offers an indication for whether the BA.4/5 sub-variants are present, although this method does not detect their presence with certainty. It also does not show the differences between BA.4 and BA.5. The data also offers an indication for whether BA.2.75 is present. The latest trend forecast indicates that BA.4/5 will decrease, accompanied by an increase in other variants, such as BA.2.75. The margins of uncertainty in this forecast are still significant. The data comes from various GGD regions, but (in contrast to pathogen surveillance data) the results do not provide a national overview. Pathogen surveillance data and variant PCR data show the same trends for the percentage of BA.4/BA.5. Saltro’s variant PCR data shows that the combined percentage of BA.4/BA.5 became dominant in early June.

¹ As published 6 September 2022 in the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands.

² Reports by the Municipal Public Health Services (GGDs) to RIVM between 30 August 2022 10:01 and 6 September2022 10:00.

³As published 30 August 2022 in the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands.

⁴ Reports by the Municipal Public Health Services (GGDs) to RIVM between 23 August 2022 10:01 and 30 August 2022  10:00.

⁵Not all patients admitted to hospital with the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 have COVID-19 as the main reason or one of the reasons for hospital admission. The hospital and ICU admissions for which it is known that admission was due to other reasons than a SARS-CoV-2 infection (category 3 in the admission reasons) are not counted here. For an explanation of the categories of admission reasons, see the RIVM graphs page, or the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands.

⁶ Not all of these reported deaths occurred within the last week. The actual number of deaths is higher than the deaths that are reported in the surveillance. This is because there is no mandatory reporting requirement for death due to COVID-19. For that reason, the mortality figures presented here are underreported.

⁷ As published 6 September 2022 in the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands. The figures from the past week and current week may be updated to include any test results provided later. These figures only include tests of people who were tested in the GGD test lanes and does not include any tests that are required in order to travel.

⁸ For more information about the reproduction number, click here.

⁹ The reproduction numbers (R) based on NICE data are calculated using hospital and ICU admissions due to COVID-19. These calculations do not include admissions registered by NICE after 25 January 2022 for any reason other than COVID-19.

10 Based on data available at RIVM on Monday afternoon, 5 September 2022, as published in the open data. See the sewage surveillance updates on the Coronavirus Dashboard for the latest figures. See the explanation of the data presented for more details about how these figures are calculated.

11 In the first half of last week, between 1 and 3 samples were taken from each sampling location and analysed. The samples were taken on the Monday, Tuesday and/or Wednesday of that week.

12 Ideally, a total of 4 sewage samples from all 311 sampling locations would be taken and analysed in order to calculate the average for the previous week.

13 Number of people connected to the number of sampling locations on which the average is based. 

30 August 2022 | 16:20

Lower risk of hospital admission after COVID-19 booster jab or repeat vaccination

In the past 8 weeks, from 29 June to 23 August 2022, people aged 12 years and older who had the booster jab had a 51% lower risk of hospital admission than people who only received the basic series of COVID-19 vaccinations, which is a relative risk difference (RRD) of -51%. This means that the risk of hospital admission after a booster jab was about two times lower during this period, compared to people who only received the basic series of vaccinations. The risk of hospital admission for people aged 60 years and older who had the repeat vaccination against COVID-19 was 24% lower than for people who received the booster jab but not the repeat vaccination (RRD -24%). 

Read more on the webpage Lower risk of hospital admission after COVID-19 booster jab or repeat vaccination

30 August 2022 | 16:00

Vaccination figures: 22 to 28 August 2022

Up to and including Sunday 28 August, almost 2.7 million repeat vaccinations had been administered. People aged 60 years and older, people living in nursing homes, and people with severely impaired immunity are eligible to get a repeat vaccination against COVID-19 three months after their booster jab or three months after a SARS-CoV-2 infection. Vaccination coverage for the repeat vaccination among people over 60 has now reached 54,2%.  From 8 July 2022 on, adults who have not yet had a booster jab or repeat vaccination against COVID-19 received a reminder letter from RIVM. 

Read more in the weekly update on COVID-19 vaccination figures. 

30 August 2022 | 15:40

Weekly update on the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2: 30 August 2022

As of 17 May 2022, expanded information about the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 is provided on this page. In addition to figures on positive tests and hospital admissions, the page also includes information from the Infection Radar surveys, sewage surveillance and pathogen surveillance.

Infection Radar, testing, and hospital and ICU admissions

In the Infection Radar survey, the percentage of people who reported possible symptoms of COVID-19 last week remained the same (1.6%) compared to the week before that (1.6%). The number of people who tested positive for COVID-19 reported to the Municipal Public Health Services (GGDs) decreased slightly (-11%) last week compared to the week before that. The number of people who were tested for COVID-19 by the GGD also decreased slightly (-17%). On 15 August 2022, the reproduction number based on reported positive tests was 0.86 (0.81 – 0.92). The number of new hospital admissions of patients with SARS-CoV-2 decreased slightly (-8%) compared to the week before. The number of new ICU admissions of patients with SARS-CoV-2 remained relatively low; there were 20 ICU admissions last week (-26%).

Sewage surveillance

In sewage surveillance, the national average viral load in week 33  (15 – 21 August 2022) remained about the same as in week 31. A similar trend was observed in the first half of week 34 (22 – 24 August). The average number of virus particles was highest in Amsterdam-Amstelland in week 33 and in Limburg-Noord in the first half of week 34. The BA.5 Omicron sub-variant is still observed most frequently.

Virus variants from pathogen surveillance

So far, the Omicron variant has five sub-variants that are currently being monitored closely. These have been designated BA.1, BA.2 (including sub-variants BA.2.12.1 and BA.2.75), BA.3, BA.4 and BA.5. 

Since June 2022, Omicron BA.5 has been the dominant variant in the Netherlands (>90% of the tested samples since week 29). According to the WHO, these variants do not appear to cause more serious illness than the BA.2 variant that was recently most prevalent in the Netherlands. However, there are indications that antibodies may be less effective against these variants. 

Since July 2022, various countries have recently observed a new sub-variant of the Omicron BA.2 lineage: BA.2.75. This sub-variant has been found in India, Australia, Japan, Canada, the USA, Germany, Denmark and the UK, among other countries. BA.2.75 has been increasing recently in pathogen surveillance in the Netherlands. The next few weeks will show whether this upward trend will continue. It is too early to say whether this will lead to an increase in the number of infections. BA.2.75 seems to have minor specific mutations that enable it to more easily evade the immunity built up against COVID-19 (by vaccination or previous infection). There are no indications that the BA.2.75 sub-variant would be more likely to cause severe illness compared to the other Omicron sub-variants. This sub-variant seems to be increasing slowly in the Netherlands and in the surrounding countries. RIVM will continue monitoring the situation.

¹ As published 30 August 2022 in the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands.

² Reports by the Municipal Public Health Services (GGDs) to RIVM between 23 August 2022 10:01 and 30 August2022 10:00.

³As published 23 August 2022 in the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands.

⁴ Reports by the Municipal Public Health Services (GGDs) to RIVM between 16 August 2022 10:01 and 23 August 2022  10:00.

⁵Not all patients admitted to hospital with the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 have COVID-19 as the main reason or one of the reasons for hospital admission. The hospital and ICU admissions for which it is known that admission was due to other reasons than a SARS-CoV-2 infection (category 3 in the admission reasons) are not counted here. For an explanation of the categories of admission reasons, see the RIVM graphs page, or the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands.

⁶ Not all of these reported deaths occurred within the last week. The actual number of deaths is higher than the deaths that are reported in the surveillance. This is because there is no mandatory reporting requirement for death due to COVID-19. For that reason, the mortality figures presented here are underreported.

⁷ As published 30 August 2022 in the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands. The figures from the past week and current week may be updated to include any test results provided later. These figures only include tests of people who were tested in the GGD test lanes and does not include any tests that are required in order to travel.

⁸ For more information about the reproduction number, click here.

⁹ The reproduction numbers (R) based on NICE data are calculated using hospital and ICU admissions due to COVID-19. These calculations do not include admissions registered by NICE after 25 January 2022 for any reason other than COVID-19.

10 Based on data available at RIVM on Monday afternoon, 29 August 2022, as published in the open data. See the sewage surveillance updates on the Coronavirus Dashboard for the latest figures. See the explanation of the data presented for more details about how these figures are calculated.

11 In the first half of last week, between 1 and 3 samples were taken from each sampling location and analysed. The samples were taken on the Monday, Tuesday and/or Wednesday of that week.

12 Ideally, a total of 4 sewage samples from all 311 sampling locations would be taken and analysed in order to calculate the average for the previous week.

13 Number of people connected to the number of sampling locations on which the average is based. 

23 August 2022 | 16:00

Vaccination figures: 15 to 21 August 2022

Up to and including Sunday 21 August, almost 2.7 million repeat vaccinations had been administered. People aged 60 years and older, people living in nursing homes, and people with severely impaired immunity are eligible to get a repeat vaccination against COVID-19 three months after their booster jab or three months after a SARS-CoV-2 infection. Vaccination coverage for the repeat vaccination among people over 60 has now reached 54%.  From 8 July 2022 on, adults who have not yet had a booster jab or repeat vaccination against COVID-19 received a reminder letter from RIVM. 

Read more in the weekly update on COVID-19 vaccination figures.

23 August 2022 | 15:10

Weekly update on the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2: 23 August 2022

As of 17 May 2022, expanded information about the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 is provided on this page. In addition to figures on positive tests and hospital admissions, the page also includes information from the Infection Radar surveys, sewage surveillance and pathogen surveillance.

Infection Radar, testing, and hospital and ICU admissions

In the Infection Radar survey, the percentage of people who reported possible symptoms of COVID-19 last week decreased slightly (-1.6%) compared to the week before that (-1.9%). The number of people who tested positive for COVID-19 reported to the Municipal Public Health Services (GGDs) decreased (-24%) last week compared to the week before that. The number of people who were tested for COVID-19 by the GGD also decreased (-17%). On 8 August 2022, the reproduction number based on reported positive tests was 0.88 (0.83 – 0.93). The number of new hospital admissions of patients with SARS-CoV-2 remained the same compared to the week before. The number of new ICU admissions of patients with SARS-CoV-2 also remained stable and relatively low; there were 27 ICU admissions last week, compared to 26 ICU admissions the week before.

Sewage surveillance

In sewage surveillance, the national average viral load in week 32 (8 – 14 August 2022) decreased by 32.9% compared to week 31. In the first half of week 33 (15 – 17 July), the average number of virus particles increased slightly compared to the week before that, rising by 13.4%. In both weeks, the average number of virus particles was highest in Amsterdam-Amstelland. The BA.5 Omicron sub-variant was observed most frequently, while the BA.4 sub-variant was detected less often once again.

Virus variants from pathogen surveillance

So far, the Omicron variant has five sub-variants that are currently being monitored closely. These have been designated BA.1, BA.2 (including sub-variants BA.2.12.1 and BA.2.75), BA.3, BA.4 and BA.5. 

Since June 2022, Omicron BA.5 has been the dominant variant in the Netherlands (>90% of the tested samples since week 29). According to the WHO, these variants do not appear to cause more serious illness than the BA.2 variant that was recently most prevalent in the Netherlands. However, there are indications that antibodies may be less effective against these variants. 

Since July 2022, various countries have recently observed a new sub-variant of the Omicron BA.2 lineage: BA.2.75. This sub-variant has been found in India, Australia, Japan, Canada, the USA, Germany and the UK, among other countries. This sub-variant has also been detected several times in pathogen surveillance in the Netherlands. Not much is known about BA.2.75 at this point. Like other Omicron sub-variants, BA.2.75 does seem to have minor specific mutations that enable it to more easily evade the immunity built up against COVID-19. For the time being, this sub-variant does not seem to be increasing rapidly or in the Netherlands or in the surrounding countries. RIVM will continue monitoring the situation.
 

¹ As published 23 August 2022 in the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands.

² Reports by the Municipal Public Health Services (GGDs) to RIVM between 16 August 2022 10:01 and 23 August2022 10:00.

³As published 16 August 2022 in the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands.

⁴ Reports by the Municipal Public Health Services (GGDs) to RIVM between 9 August 2022 10:01 and 16 August 2022  10:00.

⁵Not all patients admitted to hospital with the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 have COVID-19 as the main reason or one of the reasons for hospital admission. The hospital and ICU admissions for which it is known that admission was due to other reasons than a SARS-CoV-2 infection (category 3 in the admission reasons) are not counted here. For an explanation of the categories of admission reasons, see the RIVM graphs page, or the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands.

⁶ Not all of these reported deaths occurred within the last week. The actual number of deaths is higher than the deaths that are reported in the surveillance. This is because there is no mandatory reporting requirement for death due to COVID-19. For that reason, the mortality figures presented here are underreported.

⁷ As published 23 August 2022 in the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands. The figures from the past week and current week may be updated to include any test results provided later. These figures only include tests of people who were tested in the GGD test lanes and does not include any tests that are required in order to travel.

⁸ For more information about the reproduction number, click here.

⁹ The reproduction numbers (R) based on NICE data are calculated using hospital and ICU admissions due to COVID-19. These calculations do not include admissions registered by NICE after 25 January 2022 for any reason other than COVID-19.

10 Based on data available at RIVM on Monday afternoon, 22 August 2022, as published in the open data. See the sewage surveillance updates on the Coronavirus Dashboard for the latest figures. See the explanation of the data presented for more details about how these figures are calculated.

11 In the first half of last week, between 1 and 3 samples were taken from each sampling location and analysed. The samples were taken on the Monday, Tuesday and/or Wednesday of that week.

12 Ideally, a total of 4 sewage samples from all 311 sampling locations would be taken and analysed in order to calculate the average for the previous week.

13 Number of people connected to the number of sampling locations on which the average is based. 

16 August 2022 | 17:15

Weekly update on the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2: 16 August 2022

As of 17 May 2022, expanded information about the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 is provided on this page. In addition to figures on positive tests and hospital admissions, the page also includes information from the Infection Radar surveys, sewage surveillance and pathogen surveillance.

Infection Radar, testing, and hospital and ICU admissions

In the Infection Radar survey, the percentage of people who reported possible symptoms of COVID-19 last week decreased (1.9%) compared to the week before that (2.4%). The number of people who tested positive for COVID-19 reported to the Municipal Public Health Services (GGDs) decreased (-21%) last week compared to the week before that. The number of people who were tested for COVID-19 by the GGD also continued to decrease (-27%). On 1 August 2022, the reproduction number based on reported positive tests was 0.81 (0.77 – 0.85). The number of new hospital admissions of patients with SARS-CoV-2 decreased (-31%) compared to the week before. Although the number of new ICU admissions of patients with SARS-CoV-2 remained relatively low, this figure rose from 23 to 26 (+13%) compared to the week before. 

Sewage surveillance

In sewage surveillance, the national average viral load in week 31 (1 – 7 August 2022) decreased by 24% compared to week 30. In sewage surveillance, the national average viral load in week 31 (1 – 7 August 2022) decreased by 24% compared to week 30. In the first half of week 32 (8 – 10 August), the average number of virus particles continued to decrease, dropping by 37%. The average number of virus particles was highest in Haaglanden in week 31 and in Amsterdam-Amstelland in week 32. The BA.5 Omicron sub-variant was observed most frequently, while the BA.4 sub-variant was detected less often once again.

Virus variants from pathogen surveillance

So far, the Omicron variant has five sub-variants that are currently being monitored closely. These have been designated BA.1, BA.2 (including sub-variant BA.2.12.1), BA.3, BA.4 and BA.5. 

Since June 2022, Omicron BA.5 has been the dominant variant in the Netherlands (>90% of the tested samples in week 30). According to the WHO, these new variants do not appear to cause more serious illness than the BA.2 variant that was recently most prevalent in the Netherlands. However, there are indications that antibodies may be less effective against these variants. 

Since July 2022, various countries have recently observed a new sub-variant of the Omicron BA.2 lineage: BA.2.75. This sub-variant has been found in India, Australia, Japan, Canada, the USA, Germany and the UK, among other countries. This sub-variant has also been detected twice in pathogen surveillance in the Netherlands. Not much is known about BA.2.75 at this point. Like other Omicron sub-variants, BA.2.75 does seem to have minor specific mutations that enable it to more easily evade the immunity built up against COVID-19. For the time being, this sub-variant does not seem to be increasing rapidly or in the Netherlands or in the surrounding countries. RIVM will continue monitoring the situation.

16 August 2022 | 16:30

Vaccination figures: 8 to 14 August 2022

Up to and including Sunday 14 August, almost 2.7 million repeat vaccinations had been administered. People aged 60 years and older, people living in nursing homes, and people with severely impaired immunity are eligible to get a repeat vaccination against COVID-19 three months after their booster jab or three months after a SARS-CoV-2 infection. Vaccination coverage for the repeat vaccination among people over 60 has now reached 53.7%.  From 8 July 2022 on, adults who have not yet had a booster jab or repeat vaccination against COVID-19 received a reminder letter from RIVM.  

Read more in the weekly update on COVID-19 vaccination figures.

9 August 2022 | 16:00

Vaccination figures: 1 to 7 August 2022

Up to and including Sunday 7 August, almost 2.6 million repeat vaccinations had been administered. People aged 60 years and older, people living in nursing homes, and people with severely impaired immunity are eligible to get a repeat vaccination against COVID-19 three months after their booster jab or three months after a SARS-CoV-2 infection. Vaccination coverage for the repeat vaccination among people over 60 has now reached 53.2%.  From 8 July 2022 on, adults who have not yet had a booster jab or repeat vaccination against COVID-19 received a reminder letter from RIVM. 

Read more in the weekly update on COVID-19 vaccination figures.

9 August 2022 | 15:30

Weekly update on the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2:  9 August 2022

As of 17 May 2022, expanded information about the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 is provided on this page. In addition to figures on positive tests and hospital admissions, the page also includes information from the Infection Radar surveys, sewage surveillance and pathogen surveillance.

Infection Radar, testing, and hospital and ICU admissions

In the Infection Radar survey, the percentage of people who reported possible symptoms of COVID-19 last week remained reasonably stable (2.4%) compared to the week before that (2.7%). The number of people who tested positive for COVID-19 reported to the Municipal Public Health Services (GGDs) decreased (-31%) last week compared to the week before that. The number of people who were tested for COVID-19 by the GGD also decreased (-32%). On 25 July 2022, the reproduction number based on reported positive tests was 0.81 (0.78 – 0.85). The number of new hospital admissions of patients with SARS-CoV-2 decreased (-12%) compared to the week before. The number of new ICU admissions of patients with SARS-CoV-2 remained relatively low, and decreased (-18%) compared to the week before. 

Sewage surveillance

In sewage surveillance, the national average viral load in week 30 (25 ¬– 31 July 2022) decreased by 34% compared to week 29. In the first half of week 31 (1 – 3 August), the average number of virus particles continued to decrease, dropping by 19%. The average number of virus particles was highest in Gelderland-Zuid in week 30 and in Limburg-Noord in week 31. The BA.5 Omicron sub-variant was observed most frequently, while the BA.4 sub-variant was detected less often once again.

Virus variants from pathogen surveillance

So far, the Omicron variant has five sub-variants that are currently being monitored closely. These have been designated BA.1, BA.2 (including sub-variant BA.2.12.1), BA.3, BA.4 and BA.5. 

Since June 2022, Omicron BA.5 has been the dominant variant in the Netherlands (>90% of the tested samples in week 29). According to the WHO, these new variants do not appear to cause more serious illness than the BA.2 variant that was recently most prevalent in the Netherlands. However, there are indications that antibodies may be less effective against these variants. 

Since July 2022, various countries have recently observed a new sub-variant of the Omicron BA.2 lineage: BA.2.75. This sub-variant has been found in India, Australia, Japan, Canada, the USA, Germany and the UK, among other countries. This sub-variant has also been detected once in pathogen surveillance in the Netherlands. Not much is known about BA.2.75 at this point. Like other Omicron sub-variants, BA.2.75 does seem to have minor specific mutations that enable it to more easily evade the immunity built up against COVID-19. For the time being, this sub-variant does not seem to be increasing rapidly or in the Netherlands or in the surrounding countries. RIVM will continue monitoring the situation.

2 August 2022 | 17:50

New format for updates on COVID-19 hospital admissions based on vaccination status 

The monthly update on COVID-19 hospital admissions and vaccination status will have a different format as of 2 August 2022. From now on, it will compare the risk of hospital admissions between groups that have a different vaccination status.

Read more on the webpage New format for updates on COVID-19 hospital admissions based on vaccination status

2 August 2022 | 16:50

Weekly update on the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2:  2 August 2022

As of 17 May 2022, expanded information about the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 is provided on this page. In addition to figures on positive tests and hospital admissions, the page also includes information from the Infection Radar surveys, sewage surveillance and pathogen surveillance.

Infection Radar, testing, and hospital and ICU admissions

In the Infection Radar survey, the percentage of people who reported possible symptoms of COVID-19 last week remained stable (2.7%) compared to the week before that (2.7%). The number of people who tested positive for COVID-19 reported to the Municipal Public Health Services (GGDs) decreased (-23%) last week compared to the week before that. Reported infections also continued to decrease in nursing homes. The number of people who were tested for COVID-19 by the GGD decreased (-17%). On 18 July 2022, the reproduction number based on reported positive tests was 0.88 (0.84 – 0.91). The number of new hospital admissions of patients with SARS-CoV-2 decreased (-20%) compared to the week before. The number of new ICU admissions of patients with SARS-CoV-2 remained relatively low, and decreased (-35%) compared to the week before. Although the number of infections still seems fairly high, the downward trends indicate that the summer peak is behind us for now. 

Sewage surveillance

In sewage surveillance, the national average viral load in week 29 (18 – 24 July 2022) decreased by 10.0% compared to week 28. Viral loads were highest in and around Amsterdam, Rotterdam and The Hague. In the first half of week 30 (25 – 27 July), the average number of virus particles continued to decrease significantly, dropping by 33.6%. The BA.5 Omicron sub-variant was observed most frequently, while the BA.4 sub-variant was detected less often again.

Virus variants from pathogen surveillance

So far, the Omicron variant has five sub-variants that are currently being monitored closely. These have been designated BA.1, BA.2 (including sub-variant BA.2.12.1), BA.3, BA.4 and BA.5. 

Many countries have recently seen an increase in sub-variant BA.5. The percentage of this variant is being monitored in the context of pathogen surveillance and by means of variant PCR. Since June 2022, Omicron BA.5 has been the dominant variant in the Netherlands (90% of the tested samples in week 38).

According to the WHO, these new variants do not appear to cause more serious illness than the BA.2 variant that was recently most prevalent in the Netherlands. However, there are indications that antibodies may be less effective against these variants. 

Various countries have recently observed a new sub-variant of the Omicron BA.2 lineage: BA.2.75. This sub-variant has been found in India, Australia, Japan, Canada, the USA, Germany and the UK, among other countries. This sub-variant has been detected once in pathogen surveillance in the Netherlands. Not much is known about BA.2.75 at this point. Like other Omicron sub-variants, BA.2.75 does seem to have minor specific mutations that enable it to more easily evade the immunity built up against COVID-19.  RIVM is monitoring the situation very closely.

¹ As published 2 August 2022 in the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands.

² Reports by the Municipal Public Health Services (GGDs) to RIVM between 26 July2022 10:01 and 2 August2022 10:00.

³As published 26 July 2022 in the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands.

⁴ Reports by the Municipal Public Health Services (GGDs) to RIVM between 19 July 2022 10:01 and 26 July 2022 10:00.

⁵Not all patients admitted to hospital with the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 have COVID-19 as the main reason or one of the reasons for hospital admission. The hospital and ICU admissions for which it is known that admission was due to other reasons than a SARS-CoV-2 infection (category 3 in the admission reasons) are not counted here. For an explanation of the categories of admission reasons, see the RIVM graphs page, or the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands.

⁶ Not all of these reported deaths occurred within the last week. The actual number of deaths is higher than the deaths that are reported in the surveillance. This is because there is no mandatory reporting requirement for death due to COVID-19. For that reason, the mortality figures presented here are underreported.

⁷ As published 2 August 2022 in the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands. The figures from the past week and current week may be updated to include any test results provided later. These figures only include tests of people who were tested in the GGD test lanes and does not include any tests that are required in order to travel.

⁸ For more information about the reproduction number, click here.

⁹ The reproduction numbers (R) based on NICE data are calculated using hospital and ICU admissions due to COVID-19. These calculations do not include admissions registered by NICE after 25 January 2022 for any reason other than COVID-19.

10 Based on data available at RIVM on Monday afternoon, 1 August 2022, as published in the open data. See the sewage surveillance updates on the Coronavirus Dashboard for the latest figures. See the explanation of the data presented for more details about how these figures are calculated.

11 In the first half of last week, between 1 and 3 samples were taken from each sampling location and analysed. The samples were taken on the Monday, Tuesday and/or Wednesday of that week.

12 Ideally, a total of 4 sewage samples from all 312 sampling locations would be taken and analysed in order to calculate the average for the previous week.

13 Number of people connected to the number of sampling locations on which the average is based. 

2 August 2022 | 16:00

Vaccination figures: 25 to 31 July 2022

Up to and including Sunday 31 July, almost 2.6 million repeat vaccinations had been administered. People aged 60 years and older, people living in nursing homes, and people with severely impaired immunity are eligible to get a repeat vaccination against COVID-19 three months after their booster jab or three months after a SARS-CoV-2 infection. Vaccination coverage for the repeat vaccination among people over 60 has now reached 52.2%.  Almost 70.000 repeat vaccinations have been administered in the past week. From 8 July 2022 on, adults who have not yet had a booster jab or repeat vaccination against COVID-19 received a reminder letter from RIVM. 

Read more in the weekly update on COVID-19 vaccination figures.

26 July 2022 | 16:15

Vaccination figures: 18 to 24 July 2022

Up to and including Sunday 24 July, more than 2.5 million repeat vaccinations had been administered. People aged 60 years and older, people living in nursing homes, and people with severely impaired immunity are eligible to get a repeat vaccination against COVID-19 three months after their booster jab or three months after a SARS-CoV-2 infection. Vaccination coverage for the repeat vaccination among people over 60 has now reached 50.9%.  From 8 July 2022 on, adults who have not yet had a booster jab or repeat vaccination against COVID-19 received a reminder letter from RIVM. 

Read more in the weekly update on COVID-19 vaccination figures.

26 July 2022 | 16:00

Weekly update on the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2:  26 July 2022

As of 17 May 2022, expanded information about the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 is provided on this page. In addition to figures on positive tests and hospital admissions, the page also includes information from the Infection Radar surveys, sewage surveillance and pathogen surveillance.

Infection Radar, testing, and hospital and ICU admissions

In the Infection Radar survey, the percentage of people who reported possible symptoms of COVID-19 last week (2.7%) decreased compared to the week before that (3.6%). The number of people who tested positive for COVID-19 reported to the Municipal Public Health Services (GGDs) decreased (-27%) last week compared to the week before that, and the number of people by the GGD also decreased (-33%). On 11 July 2022, the reproduction number based on reported positive tests was 0.84 (0.81 – 0.87). The decrease in tests and reported positive tests may possibly be due in part to the summer period, when many Dutch people are on holiday. However, there is also a decrease in the number of reported positive tests in nursing homes, a figure that is not expected to be affected by holidays (or hardly at all). Looking at hospital figures, the number of new hospital admissions of patients with SARS-CoV-2 decreased slightly, dropping by 12% compared to the week before, while the number of new patients with SARS-CoV-2 in the ICU remained relatively low (+8%) compared to the week before.

Sewage surveillance

In sewage surveillance, the national average viral load in week 28 (11 – 17 July 2022) rose by 17.8% compared to week 27. In the first half of week 29 (18 – 20 July), the average viral load decreased slightly, dropping by 6.8%. In both periods, viral loads were once again highest in and around Amsterdam and The Hague. The BA.5 Omicron sub-variant was observed most frequently in sewage in week 28, while the BA.4 sub-variant was detected less often again.

Virus variants from pathogen surveillance

More than 80% of all samples examined in week 27 (4 – 10 July) contained the BA.5 sub-variant. This variant became dominant in the Netherlands in June 2022. So far, the BA.2.75 sub-variant has only been found once during pathogen surveillance: in a sample taken in week 25 (20 – 26 June). 

19 July 2022 | 16:00

Vaccination figures: 11 to 17 July 2022

Up to and including Sunday 17 July, more than 2.4 million repeat vaccinations had been administered. People aged 60 years and older, people living in nursing homes, and people with severely impaired immunity are eligible to get a repeat vaccination against COVID-19 three months after their booster jab or three months after a SARS-CoV-2 infection. Vaccination coverage for the repeat vaccination among people over 60 has now reached 49.3%. Over 100,000 repeat vaccinations were administered last week. This is the highest number of repeat vaccinations in one week within the past three months. The strongest increase was seen among people in their 70s and 80s. Those age groups received twice as many repeat vaccinations last week compared to the week before that. From 8 July 2022 on, adults who have not yet had a booster jab or repeat vaccination against COVID-19 received a reminder letter from RIVM. 

Read more in the weekly update on COVID-19 vaccination figures.

19 July 2022 | 15:30

Weekly update on the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2:  19 July 2022

As of 17 May 2022, expanded information about the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 is provided on this page. In addition to figures on positive tests and hospital admissions, the page also includes information from the Infection Radar surveys, sewage surveillance and pathogen surveillance.

Infection Radar, testing, and hospital and ICU admissions

In the Infection Radar survey, the percentage of people who reported possible symptoms of COVID-19 last week (3.6%) was comparable to the week before that (3.7%). The number of people who tested positive for COVID-19 reported to the Municipal Public Health Services (GGDs) decreased slightly (-11%) last week compared to the week before that. The number of people who were tested for COVID-19 also decreased slightly (-6%). On 4 July 2022, the reproduction number based on reported positive tests was 0.99 (0.96 – 1.03). However, the number of new hospital admissions of patients with SARS-CoV-2 increased 29% compared to the week before. Although the number of new ICU admissions of patients with SARS-CoV-2 remained relatively low and table (-7%) compared to the week before.  

Sewage surveillance

In sewage surveillance, the national average viral load in week 27 (4 – 10 July) remained about the same as in week 26, dropping only slightly (-2.8%). In the first half of week 28 (11 – 13 July), the average viral load increased again, rising by 14.6%. In both weeks, viral loads were once again highest in the metropolitan area, particularly in and around Amsterdam. The BA.5 Omicron sub-variant was observed most frequently in sewage in week 27. The BA.4 sub-variant was found to a much lesser extent, and the BA.2.12.1 sub-variant seems to be gradually disappearing.

Virus variants from pathogen surveillance

The percentage of the BA.5 sub-variant, which became dominant in June 2022, is still increasing. Various countries have recently observed a sub-variant of the Omicron BA.2 lineage: BA.2.75. This sub-variant has been found in India, Australia, Japan, Canada, the USA, Germany and the UK, among other countries. BA.2.75 has also been found in the Netherlands by now.

12 July 2022 | 16:00

Vaccination figures: 4 to 10 July 2022

Up to and including Sunday 10 July, more than 2.3 million repeat vaccinations had been administered. People aged 60 years and older, people living in nursing homes, and people with severely impaired immunity are eligible to get a repeat vaccination against COVID-19 three months after their booster jab or three months after a SARS-CoV-2 infection. Vaccination coverage for the repeat vaccination among people over 60 has now reached 47.3%. 

Read more in the weekly update on COVID-19 vaccination figures.

12 July 2022 | 15:50

Weekly update on the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2:  12 July 2022

As of 17 May 2022, expanded information about the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 is provided on this page. In addition to figures on positive tests and hospital admissions, the page also includes information from the Infection Radar surveys, sewage surveillance and pathogen surveillance. 

Read more on the webpage Weekly coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 figures.

5 July 2022 | 16:15

COVID-19 booster jab and repeat vaccination needed for older people to restore protection

In the period from 15 March 2022 to 28 June 2022, hardly any protection against hospital and ICU admission could still be detected from the basic series of COVID-19 vaccinations. This is because the vast majority of people who only received the basic series were vaccinated nearly a year ago by now, and vaccinations (and previous infections) provide protection against hospital admission which diminishes over time.

Read more: COVID-19 booster jab and repeat vaccination needed for older people to restore protection

5 July 2022 | 16:00

Vaccination figures: 27 June – 3 July 2022

Up to and including Sunday 3 July, more than 2.2 million repeat vaccinations had been administered. People aged 60 years and older, people living in nursing homes, and people with severely impaired immunity are eligible to get a repeat vaccination against COVID-19 three months after their booster jab or three months after a SARS-CoV-2 infection. Vaccination coverage for the repeat vaccination among people over 60 has now reached 47.1%. For the past 3 weeks, the weekly number of repeat vaccinations has been increasing. More than twice as many repeat vaccinations were administered last week compared to the week of 6 June. The strongest increase was seen among people aged 60-69 years. 

Read more in the weekly update on COVID-19 vaccination figures.

5 July 2022 | 15:30

Weekly update on the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2:  5 July 2022

As of 17 May 2022, expanded information about the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 is provided on this page. In addition to figures on positive tests and hospital admissions, the page also includes information from the Infection Radar surveys, sewage surveillance and pathogen surveillance. For more background information see the news: SARS-CoV-2 infections rising less rapidly.

28 June 2022 | 16:50

Weekly update on the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2:  28 June 2022

As of 17 May 2022, expanded information about the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 is provided on this page. In addition to figures on positive tests and hospital admissions, the page also includes information from the Infection Radar surveys, sewage surveillance and pathogen surveillance. For more background information see the news: SARS-CoV-2 infections continue to rise.

Infection Radar, testing, and hospital and ICU admissions

In the Infection Radar survey last week, the percentage of people who reported possible symptoms of COVID-19 stabilised at about 3.5%. The number of people who were tested for COVID-19 and the number of newly reported positive COVID-19 tests increased (+29%) last week compared to the week before that. This increase was observed in all age groups and in all security regions. On 13 June 2022, the reproduction number based on reported positive tests was above 1. The number of new hospital admissions of patients with SARS-CoV-2 increased 7%, while the number of new patients with SARS-CoV-2 in the ICU rose 10%, compared to the week before.

Sewage surveillance

In sewage surveillance, an increase of 49.2% was observed in the national average number of virus particles in week 24 compared to week 23. Once again, viral loads were highest in the metropolitan area, particularly in and around Amsterdam. In the first half of week 25, the average number of virus particles continued to increase, rising by 30.3%; at that time, those levels were particularly high in and around The Hague. The Omicron sub-variant BA.2 is still present in sewage, but the BA.5 Omicron sub-variant was observed most frequently in week 24. The BA.4 sub-variant was found to a lesser extent, and the BA.2.12.1 sub-variant continued to decrease significantly.

Virus variants from pathogen surveillance

So far, the Omicron variant has five sub-variants that are currently being monitored closely. These have been designated BA.1, BA.2 (including sub-variant BA.2.12.1), BA.3, BA.4 and BA.5. Many countries have recently seen an increase in sub-variants BA.4 and BA.5. BA.2.12.1 is also increasing in some countries. The data from pathogen surveillance shows that BA.5 became dominant in the Netherlands in June 2022. Saltro’s variant PCR data shows the same trend. 

According to the WHO, these new variants do not appear to cause more serious illness than the BA.2 variant that was recently most prevalent in the Netherlands. However, there are indications that antibodies may be less effective against these variants. 
 

 GGD reports to RIVM between 21 June 2022 10:01 and 28June 2022 10:00 as published 28 June 2022 in the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands.

² GGD reports to RIVM between 14 June 2022 10:01 and 21 June 2022 10:00 as published 21 June 2022 in the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands.

³ As published 28 June 2022 in the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands. The figures may be updated to include any registrations provided later by the NICE Foundation, especially regarding the past week and the week before that.

⁴Not all patients admitted to hospital with the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 have COVID-19 as the main reason or one of the reasons for hospital admission.  The hospital and ICU admissions for which it is known that admission was due to other reasons than a SARS-CoV-2 infection (category 3 in the admission reasons) are not counted here. For an explanation of the categories of admission reasons, see the RIVM graphs page, or the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands.

⁵ Not all of these reported deaths occurred within the last week. The actual number of deaths is higher than the deaths that are reported in the surveillance. This is because there is no mandatory reporting requirement for death due to COVID-19. For that reason, the mortality figures presented here are underreported.

⁶ As published 28 June 2022 in the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands. The figures from the past week and current week may be updated to include any test results provided later. These figures only include tests of people who were tested in the GGD test lanes and does not include any tests that are required in order to travel.

⁷ For more information about the reproduction number, click here.

⁸ The reproduction numbers (R) based on NICE data are calculated using hospital and ICU admissions due to COVID-19. These calculations do not include admissions registered by NICE after 25 January 2022 for any reason other than COVID-19.

9 Based on data available at RIVM on Monday afternoon, 27 June 2022, as published in the open data. See the sewage surveillance updates on the Coronavirus Dashboard for the latest figures. See the explanation of the data presented for more details about how these figures are calculated.

¹⁰ In the first half of last week, between 1 and 3 samples were taken from each sampling location and analysed. The samples were taken on the Monday, Tuesday and/or Wednesday of that week.

¹¹ Ideally, a total of 4 sewage samples from all 312 sampling locations would be taken and analysed in order to calculate the average for the previous week.

¹² Number of people connected to the number of sampling locations on which the average is based. 

28 June 2022 | 16:30

Vaccination figures: 20 June – 26 June 2022

Up to and including Sunday 26 June 2022, more than 2.2 million repeat vaccinations had been administered. People aged 60 years and older, people living in nursing homes, and people with severely impaired immunity are eligible to get a repeat vaccination against COVID-19 three months after their booster jab or three months after a SARS-CoV-2 infection. Vaccination coverage for the repeat vaccination among people over 60 has now reached 45.7%. For the past two weeks, the weekly number of repeat vaccinations has been increasing. 59% more repeat vaccinations were administered last week compared to the week of 6 June. The strongest increase was seen in the age group of people aged 60 to 70 years. 

Read more in the weekly update on COVID-19 vaccination figures. 

 21 June 2022 | 16:30

Weekly update on the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2:  21 June 2022

As of 17 May 2022, expanded information about the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 is provided on this page. In addition to figures on positive tests and hospital admissions, the page also includes information from the Infection Radar surveys, sewage surveillance and pathogen surveillance. 

For more information read the news: Upward trend in infections continues

Infection Radar, testing, and hospital and ICU admissions

In the Infection Radar survey last week, the percentage of people who reported possible symptoms of COVID-19 continued rising to above 3%. The number of people who were tested for COVID-19 and the number of newly reported positive COVID-19 tests increased significantly (+70%) last week compared to the week before that. This increase was observed in all age groups and in all security regions. On 6 June 2022, the reproduction number based on reported positive tests was above 1. The number of new hospital admissions of patients with SARS-CoV-2 stabilised, but the number of new patients with SARS-CoV-2 in the ICU rose by 37%, compared to the week before.

Sewage surveillance

In sewage surveillance, an increase of 37.6% was observed in the national average number of virus particles in week 23 compared to week 22. As in last week’s update, the average number of virus particles was particularly high in and around Amsterdam and The Hague. In the first half of week 24, the average number of virus particles continued to increase, rising by 34.1%. The Omicron sub-variant BA.2 is still very present in sewage, but a significant increase in the number of sewage samples containing mutations specifically associated with BA.5 was observed again in week 23. The BA.4 mutations were found to a lesser extent, and there was a significant decrease in the mutations specific to BA.2.12.1.

Virus variants from pathogen surveillance

So far, the Omicron variant has five sub-variants that are currently being monitored closely. These have been designated BA.1, BA.2 (including sub-variant BA.2.12.1), BA.3, BA.4 and BA.5. Many countries have recently seen an increase in sub-variants BA.4 and BA.5. BA.2.12.1 is also increasing in some countries. Based on the latest pathogen surveillance data, trend forecasts for Omicron sub-variants BA.4, BA.5 and BA.2.12.1 suggest that BA.5 will become dominant. Saltro’s variant PCR data shows a comparable trend, indicating that the combined percentage of BA.4/BA.5 became dominant in early June. 

 ¹ GGD reports to RIVM between 14 June 2022 10:01 and 21 June 2022 10:00 as published 21 June 2022 in the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands.

² GGD reports to RIVM between 7 June 2022 10:01 and 14 June 2022 10:00 as published 14 June 2022 in the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands.

³ As published 21 June 2022 in the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands. The figures may be updated to include any registrations provided later by the NICE Foundation, especially regarding the past week and the week before that.

⁴Not all patients admitted to hospital with the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 have COVID-19 as the main reason or one of the reasons for hospital admission.  The hospital and ICU admissions for which it is known that admission was due to other reasons than a SARS-CoV-2 infection (category 3 in the admission reasons) are not counted here. For an explanation of the categories of admission reasons, see the RIVM graphs page, or the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands.

⁵ Not all of these reported deaths occurred within the last week. The actual number of deaths is higher than the deaths that are reported in the surveillance. This is because there is no mandatory reporting requirement for death due to COVID-19. For that reason, the mortality figures presented here are underreported.

⁶ As published 21 June 2022 in the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands. The figures from the past week and current week may be updated to include any test results provided later. These figures only include tests of people who were tested in the GGD test lanes and does not include any tests that are required in order to travel.

⁷ For more information about the reproduction number, click here.

⁸ The reproduction numbers (R) based on NICE data are calculated using hospital and ICU admissions due to COVID-19. These calculations do not include admissions registered by NICE after 25 January 2022 for any reason other than COVID-19.

9 Based on data available at RIVM on Monday afternoon, 20 June 2022, as published in the open data. See the sewage surveillance updates on the Coronavirus Dashboard for the latest figures. See the explanation of the data presented for more details about how these figures are calculated.

¹⁰ In the first half of last week, between 1 and 3 samples were taken from each sampling location and analysed. The samples were taken on the Monday, Tuesday and/or Wednesday of that week.

¹¹ Ideally, a total of 4 sewage samples from all 312 sampling locations would be taken and analysed in order to calculate the average for the previous week.

¹² Number of people connected to the number of sampling locations on which the average is based.

21 June 2022 | 16:00

Vaccination figures: 13 June – 19 June 2022

Up to and including Sunday 19 June 2022, more than 2.1 million repeat vaccinations had been administered. People aged 60 years and older, people living in nursing homes, and people with severely impaired immunity are eligible to get a repeat vaccination against COVID-19 three months after their last COVID-19 vaccination or three months after a SARS-CoV-2 infection. Vaccination coverage for the repeat vaccination among people over 60 has now reached 44.2%.

Read more in the weekly update on COVID-19 vaccination figures. 

14 June 2022 | 19:30

Weekly update on the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2:  14 June 2022

As of 17 May 2022, expanded information about the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 is provided on this page. In addition to figures on positive tests and hospital admissions, the page also includes information from the Infection Radar surveys, sewage surveillance and pathogen surveillance.

More information : read the news Many more infections, limited increase in hospital admissions

Infection Radar, testing, and hospital and ICU admissions

In the Infection Radar survey last week,the percentage of people who reported possible symptoms of COVID-19 continued to increase, rising to over 3%. The number of people who were tested for COVID-19 and the number of newly reported positive COVID-19 tests increased significantly (+64%) last week compared to the week before that. This increase was observed in all age groups and security regions. On 30 May 2022, the reproduction number based on reported positive tests was above 1. The number of new hospital admissions of patients with SARS-CoV-2 increased by 12% and the number of new patients with SARS-CoV-2 in the ICU remained the same, compared to the week before.

Sewage surveillance

In sewage surveillance, an increase of +62.4% was observed in the national average number of virus particles in week 22 compared to week 21. The average number of virus particles was particularly high in and around Amsterdam and The Hague, In the first half of week 22, the average number of virus particles continued to increase, rising by +37,3%. The Omicron sub-variant BA.2 is still very present in sewage, but from week 20 on, there was a significant increase in the number of sewage samples containing mutations specifically associated with BA.4, BA.5 and BA.2.12.1. In weeks 21 and 22, the upward trend seemed to continue in particular for the specific mutations associated with sub-variant BA.5.

Virus variants from pathogen surveillance

So far, the Omicron variant has five sub-variants that are currently being monitored closely. These have been designated BA.1, BA.2 (including sub-variant BA.2.12.1), BA.3, BA.4 and BA.5. However, it is currently very unclear which Omicron sub-variant is spreading fastest and will become dominant. Based on the latest pathogen surveillance data and the variant PCR data, there has been an increase in BA.4 and BA.4; the variant PCR provides slightly more up-to-date data. Based on this variant PCR data, these two sub-variants represented over half of total numbers by the end of last week. In addition to BA.4 and BA.5, pathogen surveillance also shows an increase in a BA.2 sub-variant, BA.2.12.1.

¹ GGD reports to RIVM between 7 June 2022 10:01 and 14 June 2022 10:00 as published 14 June 2022 in the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands.
² GGD reports to RIVM between 31 May 2022 10:01 and 7 June 2022 10:00 as published 7 June 2022 in the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands.
³ As published 14 June 2022 in the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands. The figures may be updated to include any registrations provided later by the NICE Foundation, especially regarding the past week and the week before that.
⁴Not all patients admitted to hospital with the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 have COVID-19 as the main reason or one of the reasons for hospital admission.  The hospital and ICU admissions for which it is known that admission was due to other reasons than a SARS-CoV-2 infection (category 3 in the admission reasons) are not counted here. For an explanation of the categories of admission reasons, see the RIVM graphs page, or the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands.
⁵ Not all of these reported deaths occurred within the last week. The actual number of deaths is higher than the deaths that are reported in the surveillance. This is because there is no mandatory reporting requirement for death due to COVID-19. For that reason, the mortality figures presented here are underreported.
⁶ As published 14 June 2022 in the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands. The figures from the past week and current week may be updated to include any test results provided later. These figures only include tests of people who were tested in the GGD test lanes and does not include any tests that are required in order to travel.
⁷ For more information about the reproduction number, click here.
⁸ The reproduction numbers (R) based on NICE data are calculated using hospital and ICU admissions due to COVID-19. These calculations do not include admissions registered by NICE after 25 January 2022 for any reason other than COVID-19.
9 Based on data available at RIVM on Monday afternoon, 13 June 2022, as published in the open data. See the sewage surveillance updates on the Coronavirus Dashboard for the latest figures. See the explanation of the data presented for more details about how these figures are calculated.
¹⁰ In the first half of last week, between 1 and 3 samples were taken from each sampling location and analysed. The samples were taken on the Monday, Tuesday and/or Wednesday of that week.
¹¹ Ideally, a total of 4 sewage samples from all 312 sampling locations would be taken and analysed in order to calculate the average for the previous week.
¹² Number of people connected to the number of sampling locations on which the average is based.

14 June 2022 | 16:00

Vaccination figures: 6 June – 12 June 2022

Up to and including Sunday 12 June 2022, more than 2 million repeat vaccinations had been administered. People aged 60 years and older, people living in nursing homes, and people with severely impaired immunity are eligible to get a repeat vaccination against COVID-19 three months after their last COVID-19 vaccination or three months after a SARS-CoV-2 infection. Vaccination coverage for the repeat vaccination among people over 60 has now reached 43.1%.

See:  Archive COVID-19 vaccination figures 2022

7 June 2022 | 15:40 PM

Weekly update on the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2:  7 June 2022

As of 17 May 2022, expanded information about the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 is provided on this page. In addition to figures on positive tests and hospital admissions, the page also includes information from the Infection Radar surveys, sewage surveillance and pathogen surveillance.

Infection Radar, testing, and hospital and ICU admissions

In the Infection Radar survey last week, the percentage of people who reported possible symptoms of COVID-19 rose from about 2% to about 3%. The number of people who were tested for COVID-19 and the number of newly reported positive COVID-19 tests increased (+33%) last week compared to the week before that. This increase was observed in all age groups, except among children aged 0-12 years, and the largest increase was among people aged 13-29 years. On 19 May 2022, the reproduction number based on reported positive tests was around 1. The number of new hospital admissions of patients with SARS-CoV-2 decreased by 23% and the number of new patients with SARS-CoV-2 in the ICU stabilised, compared to the week before.

Sewage surveillance

In sewage surveillance, a slight decrease of -8.7% was observed in the national average number of virus particles in week 21 compared to week 20. In the first two days of week 22, the average number of virus particles increased slightly again, rising by +7.8%. Sewage surveillance figures seem to have plateaued for the time being. However, the average number of virus particles in and around the major cities (Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague) is high compared to the rest of the Netherlands. The Omicron sub-variant BA.2 is still very present in sewage, but in week 20, there was a significant increase in the number of sewage samples containing mutations specifically associated with BA.4, BA.5 and BA.2.12.1. In week 21, the upward trend seemed to continue in particular for the specific mutations associated with sub-variants BA.5 and BA.2.12.1.

Virus variants from pathogen surveillance

So far, the Omicron variant has five sub-variants that are currently being monitored closely. These have been designated BA.1, BA.2, BA.3, BA.4 and BA.5. The BA.2 sub-variant is currently dominant in the Netherlands. The percentage of sub-variants BA.4, BA.5 and BA.2.12.1, a sub-variant of BA.2, is increasing in pathogen surveillance. However, it is currently very unclear which Omicron sub-variant is spreading fastest and will become dominant.   BA.4 and BA.5 differ in some respects, but have the same changes in the spike protein, and are therefore likely to have very similar properties. BA.2.12.1 has another change in the spike protein. There is currently no reason to believe that any of these sub-variants would cause a more severe course of disease. 

¹ GGD reports to RIVM between 31 May 2022 10:01 and 7 June 2022 10:00 as published 7 June 2022 in the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands.
² GGD reports to RIVM between 24 May 2022 10:01 and 31 May 2022 10:00 as published 31 May 2022 in the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands.
³ As published 7 June 2022 in the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands. The figures may be updated to include any registrations provided later by the NICE Foundation, especially regarding the past week and the week before that.
⁴Not all patients admitted to hospital with the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 have COVID-19 as the main reason or one of the reasons for hospital admission.  The hospital and ICU admissions for which it is known that admission was due to other reasons than a SARS-CoV-2 infection (category 3 in the admission reasons) are not counted here. For an explanation of the categories of admission reasons, see the RIVM graphs page, or the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands.
⁵ Not all of these reported deaths occurred within the last week. The actual number of deaths is higher than the deaths that are reported in the surveillance. This is because there is no mandatory reporting requirement for death due to COVID-19. For that reason, the mortality figures presented here are underreported.
⁶ As published 7 June 2022 in the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands. The figures from the past week and current week may be updated to include any test results provided later. These figures only include tests of people who were tested in the GGD test lanes and does not include any tests that are required in order to travel.
⁷ For more information about the reproduction number, click here.
⁸ The reproduction numbers (R) based on NICE data are calculated using hospital and ICU admissions due to COVID-19. These calculations do not include admissions registered by NICE after 25 January 2022 for any reason other than COVID-19.
9 Based on data available at RIVM on Monday afternoon, 6 June 2022, as published in the open data. See the sewage surveillance updates on the Coronavirus Dashboard for the latest figures. See the explanation of the data presented for more details about how these figures are calculated.
¹⁰ In the first half of last week, between 1 and 3 samples were taken from each sampling location and analysed. The samples were taken on the Monday, Tuesday and/or Wednesday of that week.
¹¹ Ideally, a total of 4 sewage samples from all 312 sampling locations would be taken and analysed in order to calculate the average for the previous week.
¹² Number of people connected to the number of sampling locations on which the average is based.

31 May 2022 | 16:10 PM

Weekly update on the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2:  31 May 2022

As of 17 May 2022, expanded information about the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 is provided on this page. In addition to figures on positive tests and hospital occupancy, the page also includes information from the Infection Radar surveys, sewage surveillance and pathogen surveillance.

Infection Radar, testing, and hospital and ICU admissions

In the Infection Radar survey last week, , there was a stabilisation in the percentage of people who reported possible symptoms of COVID-19. . The number of newly reported positive COVID-19 tests recorded by the Municipal Public Health Services (GGDs) decreased slightly (-5%) last week compared to the week before that. The reproduction number is below 1. The number of new hospital admissions of patients with SARS-CoV-2 decreased by 31% and the number of new patients with SARS-CoV-2 in the ICU decreased by 22%, compared to the week before.

Sewage surveillance

In sewage surveillance, a very slight increase of +3.5% was observed in the national average number of virus particles in week 20 compared to week 19. In the first half of week 21, the average number of virus particles decreased slightly again, dropping by -3.6%; sewage surveillance figures seem to have plateaued. In weeks 18 and 19, an increasing number of sewage samples were found to contain mutations associated with the Omicron sub-variants BA.4, BA.5 and BA.2.12.1. In week 20, there was a significant increase in the number of sewage samples containing specific mutations associated with BA.4, BA.5 and BA.2.12.1. At five sampling locations, BA.5 was the most common variant in the sewage sample.

Virus variants from pathogen surveillance

A continued increase in BA.4 and BA.5 has been observed in recent weeks in the context of pathogen surveillance.  

Based on pathogen surveillance, trend forecasts for these sub-variants suggest that they may become dominant in June 2022. The increase in BA.4 and BA.5 is also being monitored in cooperation with Saltro by means of variant PCR. Variant PCR data can be accessed sooner and offers an indication for whether the BA.4/5 sub-variants are present, although this method does not detect their presence with certainty; sequencing is performed to confirm which variant is involved.  Trend forecasts for BA.4 and BA.5 based on this more recent variant PCR data suggest that these sub-variants may become dominant as soon as early June 2022. However, the margins of uncertainty are still significant.  

Some countries have observed an increase in a BA.2 sub-variant, designated BA.2.12.1. This sub-variant is also increasing in pathogen surveillance, but has not been included in the current forecast. This sub-variant cannot be distinguished from BA.2 based on Saltro’s variant PCR data. Which Omicron sub-variant is spreading fastest is currently unclear. 

¹ GGD reports to RIVM between 24 May 2022 10:01 and 31 May 2022 10:00 as published 31 May 2022 in the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands.
² GGD reports to RIVM between 17 May 2022 10:01 and 24 May 2022 10:00 as published 24 May 2022 in the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands.
³ As published 31 May 2022 in the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands. The figures may be updated to include any registrations provided later by the NICE Foundation, especially regarding the past week and the week before that.
⁴Not all patients admitted to hospital with the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 have COVID-19 as the main reason or one of the reasons for hospital admission.  The hospital and ICU admissions for which it is known that admission was due to other reasons than a SARS-CoV-2 infection (category 3 in the admission reasons) are not counted here. For an explanation of the categories of admission reasons, see the RIVM graphs page, or the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands.
⁵ Not all of these reported deaths occurred within the last week. The actual number of deaths is higher than the deaths that are reported in the surveillance. This is because there is no mandatory reporting requirement for death due to COVID-19. For that reason, the mortality figures presented here are underreported.
⁶ As published 31 May 2022 in the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands. The figures from the past week and current week may be updated to include any test results provided later. These figures only include tests of people who were tested in the GGD test lanes and does not include any tests that are required in order to travel.
⁷ For more information about the reproduction number, click here.
⁸ The reproduction numbers (R) based on NICE data are calculated using hospital and ICU admissions due to COVID-19. These calculations do not include admissions registered by NICE after 25 January 2022 for any reason other than COVID-19.
9 Based on data available at RIVM on Monday afternoon, 30 May 2022, as published in the open data. See the sewage surveillance updates on the Coronavirus Dashboard for the latest figures. See the explanation of the data presented for more details about how these figures are calculated.
¹⁰ In the first half of last week, between 1 and 3 samples were taken from each sampling location and analysed. The samples were taken on the Monday, Tuesday and/or Wednesday of that week.
¹¹ Ideally, a total of 4 sewage samples from all 312 sampling locations would be taken and analysed in order to calculate the average for the previous week.
¹² Number of people connected to the number of sampling locations on which the average is based.

31 May 2022 | 16:00

Vaccination figures: 23 to 29 May 2022

Up to and including Sunday 29 May, more than 2 million repeat vaccinations had been administered in the Netherlands. People aged 60 years and older, people living in nursing homes, and people with severely impaired immunity are eligible to get a repeat vaccination against COVID-19 three months after their last COVID-19 vaccination or three months after a SARS-CoV-2 infection. Vaccination coverage for the repeat vaccination among people over 60 has now reached 41.8%.

See:  Archive COVID-19 vaccination figures 2022

24 May 2022 | 15:30 PM

Weekly update on the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2:  24 May 2022

As of 17 May 2022, expanded information about the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 is provided on this page. In addition to figures on positive tests and hospital occupancy, the page also includes information from the Infection Radar surveys, sewage surveillance and pathogen surveillance.

Infection Radar, testing, and hospital and ICU admissions

In the Infection Radar survey last week, , there was a stabilisation in the percentage of people who reported possible symptoms of COVID-19. The number of newly reported positive COVID-19 tests decreased (-11%) last week compared to the week before that. The reproduction number is below 1. The number of new hospital admissions of patients with SARS-CoV-2 decreased by 18% and the number of new patients with SARS-CoV-2 in the ICU stabilised, compared to the week before.

Sewage surveillance

In sewage surveillance, a decrease of 15.7% was observed in the national average viral load in week 19 compared to week 18. In the first half of week 20, the average viral load continued to decrease slightly, dropping 6.3%. Omicron variant BA.2 had been the main variant found in the sewage samples in the past few weeks. In weeks 18 and 19, an increasing number of samples were found to contain shared BA.4/BA.5 mutations, as well as more specific mutations associated with BA.4 and BA.5. BA.2.12.1 was also detected in more samples.

Virus variants from pathogen surveillance

An increase in BA.4 and BA.5 has been observed in recent weeks in the context of pathogen surveillance. Trend forecasts for these sub-variants suggests that they may become dominant in July 2022. However, the margins of uncertainty are still very significant. Since BA.4 and BA.5 are currently only showing up in low numbers in pathogen surveillance, it is not yet possible to predict which of these two sub-variants will become dominant. For that reason, the current forecast displays these two together as BA.4/BA.5.  

Some countries have observed an increase in a BA.2 sub-variant, designated BA.2.12.1. This sub-variant has also been detected in pathogen surveillance, but has not been included in the current forecast. Which sub-variant is spreading fastest is currently unclear.

¹ GGD reports to RIVM between 17 May 2022 10:01 and 24 May 2022 10:00 as published 24 May 2022 in the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands.
² GGD reports to RIVM between 10 May 2022 10:01 and 17 May 2022 10:00 as published 17 May 2022 in the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands.
³ As published 24 May 2022 in the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands. The figures may be updated to include any registrations provided later by the NICE Foundation, especially regarding the past week and the week before that.
⁴Not all patients admitted to hospital with the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 have COVID-19 as the main reason or one of the reasons for hospital admission.  The hospital and ICU admissions for which it is known that admission was due to other reasons than a SARS-CoV-2 infection (category 3 in the admission reasons) are not counted here. For an explanation of the categories of admission reasons, see the RIVM graphs page, or the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands.
⁵ Not all of these reported deaths occurred within the last week. The actual number of deaths is higher than the deaths that are reported in the surveillance. This is because there is no mandatory reporting requirement for death due to COVID-19. For that reason, the mortality figures presented here are underreported.
⁶ As published 24 May 2022 in the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands. The figures from the past week and current week may be updated to include any test results provided later. These figures only include tests of people who were tested in the GGD test lanes and does not include any tests that are required in order to travel.
⁷ For more information about the reproduction number, click here.
⁸ The reproduction numbers (R) based on NICE data are calculated using hospital and ICU admissions due to COVID-19. These calculations do not include admissions registered by NICE after 25 January 2022 for any reason other than COVID-19.
9 Based on data available at RIVM on Monday afternoon, 23 May 2022, as published in the open data. See the sewage surveillance updates on the Coronavirus Dashboard for the latest figures. See the explanation of the data presented for more details about how these figures are calculated.
¹⁰ In the first half of last week, between 1 and 3 samples were taken from each sampling location and analysed. The samples were taken on the Monday, Tuesday and/or Wednesday of that week.
¹¹ Ideally, a total of 4 sewage samples from all 312 sampling locations would be taken and analysed in order to calculate the average for the previous week.
¹² Number of people connected to the number of sampling locations on which the average is based.

17 May 2022 | 16:15

Vaccination figures: 9 to 15 May 2022

Up to and including Sunday 15 May, more than 1.9 million repeat vaccinations had been administered. People aged 60 years and older, people living in nursing homes, and people with severely impaired immunity are eligible to get a repeat vaccination against COVID-19 three months after their last COVID-19 vaccination or three months after a SARS-CoV-2 infection. Vaccination coverage for the repeat vaccination among people over 60 has now reached 39.9%.

Read more in the weekly update on COVID-19 vaccination figures.

17 May 2022 | 16:15 PM

Weekly update on the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2:  17 May 2022

As of today (17 May 2022), we are expanding the information on this page about the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2. In addition to figures on positive tests and hospital occupancy, we will also be adding information from the Infection Radar surveys, sewage surveillance and pathogen surveillance.

Infection Radar, testing, and hospital and ICU admissions

In the Infection Radar survey last week, there was a drop in the percentage of people who reported possible symptoms of COVID-19. The number of newly reported positive COVID-19 tests decreased (16%) last week compared to the week before that. The reproduction number is also below 1. The number of new hospital admissions of patients with SARS-CoV-2 decreased by 31% and the number of new patients with SARS-CoV-2 in the ICU also decreased by 26%, compared to the week before.

Sewage surveillance

In week 18, the national average for virus particles in sewage increased slightly, rising by 7.1% compared to week 17. In the first half of week 19, the average number of virus particles decreased by 21.0%.

Omicron variant BA.2 was the main variant found in the sewage samples. Looking at the sub-variants of BA.2, samples primarily contained the sub-variant BA.2.9, to a lesser extent BA.2.3 and in a few cases BA.2.12. The number of sewage samples with BA.4/BA.5 mutations increased this week compared to last week.

Virus variants from pathogen surveillance

In recent weeks, Omicron variant BA.2 has been the most prevalent. This variant was found in 98% of all samples sequenced in weeks 16 and 17. Omicron BA.4 was detected 3 times: in weeks 14, 15 and 16. Omicron BA.5 was detected once in week 16 and twice in week 17.

¹ Not all patients admitted to hospital with the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 have COVID-19 as the main reason or one of the reasons for hospital admission. Current figures on hospital admissions of patients with SARS-CoV-2 categorised by admission reason can be viewed on the RIVM graphs page, or in the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands.
¹ GGD reports to RIVM between 10 May 2022 10:01 and 17 May 2022 10:00 as published 17 May 2022 in the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands.
² GGD reports to RIVM between 3 May 2022 10:01 and 10 May 2022 10:00 as published 10 May 2022 in the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands.
³ As published 17 May 2022 in the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands. The figures may be updated to include any registrations provided later by the NICE Foundation, especially regarding the past week and the week before that.
⁴Not all patients admitted to hospital with the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 have COVID-19 as the main reason or one of the reasons for hospital admission.  The hospital and ICU admissions for which it is known that admission was due to other reasons than a SARS-CoV-2 infection (category 3 in the admission reasons) are not counted here. For an explanation of the categories of admission reasons, see the RIVM graphs page, or the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands.
⁵ Not all of these reported deaths occurred within the last week. The actual number of deaths is higher than the deaths that are reported in the surveillance. This is because there is no mandatory reporting requirement for death due to COVID-19. For that reason, the mortality figures presented here are underreported.
⁶ As published 17 May 2022 in the weekly epidemiological update on SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands. The figures from the past week and current week may be updated to include any test results provided later. These figures only include tests of people who were tested in the GGD test lanes and does not include any tests that are required in order to travel.
⁷ For more information about the reproduction number, click here.
⁸ The reproduction numbers (R) based on NICE data are calculated using hospital and ICU admissions due to COVID-19. These calculations do not include admissions registered by NICE after 25 January 2022 for any reason other than COVID-19.
9 Based on data available at RIVM on Monday afternoon, 16 May 2022, as published in the open data. See the sewage surveillance updates on the Coronavirus Dashboard for the latest figures. See the explanation of the data presented for more details about how these figures are calculated.
¹⁰ In the first half of last week, between 1 and 3 samples were taken from each sampling location and analysed. The samples were taken on the Monday, Tuesday and/or Wednesday of that week.
¹¹ Ideally, a total of 4 sewage samples from all 312 sampling locations would be taken and analysed in order to calculate the average for the previous week.
¹² Number of people connected to the number of sampling locations on which the average is based. 

11 May 2022 | 16:00

Repeat vaccination restores protection against hospital admission to level shortly after booster

In the period from 1 February 2022 to 3 May 2022, vaccine effectiveness of the repeat vaccination against COVID-19 in preventing hospital admission was 88%. In the same period, vaccine effectiveness in preventing hospital admission was 78% among people aged 70 years and older who had received the booster jab but not the repeat vaccination, and 37% among people who had only received the basic series of COVID-19 vaccinations.

Read more: Repeat vaccination restores protection against hospital admission to level shortly after booster

11 May 2022 | 8:30

Vaccination figures: 2 to 8 May 2022

Up to and including Sunday 8 May, more than 1.8 million repeat vaccinations had been administered. People aged 60 years and older, people living in nursing homes, and people with severely impaired immunity are eligible to get a repeat vaccination against COVID-19 three months after their last COVID-19 vaccination or three months after a SARS-CoV-2 infection. Vaccination coverage for the repeat vaccination among people over 60 has now reached 38.9%.

Read more in the weekly update on COVID-19 vaccination figures.

10 May 2022 | 15:00 PM

Weekly update on the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2:  3 May to 10 May 2022

ast week, the number of new hospital admissions of patients¹ with SARS-CoV-2 decreased by 28% and the number of new patients with SARS-CoV-2 in the ICU also decreased by 32%, compared to the week before. The number of newly reported COVID-19 tests decreased slightly (-6%) compared to the week before. 

The reproduction number is below 1. See the Coronavirus Dashboard for graphs and information on the SARS-CoV-2 situation. Information on the SARS-CoV-2 situation in the Netherlands can also be found on the graphs page and in the epidemiological report, which is updated every week on Tuesdays.

03 May 2022 | 16:00

Vaccination figures: 25 April to 1 May 2022

Up to and including Sunday 1 May, more than 1.8 million repeat vaccinations had been administered. People aged 60 years and older, people living in nursing homes, and people with severely impaired immunity are eligible to get a repeat vaccination against COVID-19 three months after their last COVID-19 vaccination or three months after a SARS-CoV-2 infection. Vaccination coverage for the repeat vaccination among people over 60 has now reached 37.7%.

Read more in the weekly update on COVID-19 vaccination figures.

3 May 2022 | 15:00 PM

Weekly update on the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2: 26 april to 3 May 2022

Last week, the number of new hospital admissions of patients¹ with SARS-CoV-2 decreased by 40% and the number of new patients with SARS-CoV-2 in the ICU also decreased by 40%, compared to the week before. The number of newly reported positive COVID-19 tests was also lower (-34%) last week compared to the week before that.

The reproduction number is below 1. See the Coronavirus Dashboard for graphs and information on the SARS-CoV-2 situation. Information on the SARS-CoV-2 situation in the Netherlands can also be found on the graphs page and in the epidemiological report, which is updated every week on Tuesdays.

26 April 2022 | 16:15

Protection from repeat vaccination remains effective against severe COVID-19

In the period from 1 February 2022 to 19 April 2022, vaccine effectiveness of the basic series of COVID-19 vaccinations in preventing hospital admission was 30%. After the booster jab, that percentage was 79%. 

Read the news: Protection from repeat vaccination remains effective against severe COVID-19

26 April 2022 | 16:00

Vaccination figures 18-24 April 2022

Up to and including Sunday 24 April, more than 1.7 million repeat vaccinations had been administered. People aged 60 years and older, people living in nursing homes, and people with severely impaired immunity are eligible to get a repeat vaccination against COVID-19 three months after their last COVID-19 vaccination or three months after a SARS-CoV-2 infection. Vaccination coverage for the repeat vaccination among people over 60 has now reached 35.8%.

Read more in the weekly update on COVID-19 vaccination figures.

26 April 2022 | 16:00 PM

Weekly update on the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2: 19 April to 26 april 2022

Last week, the number of new hospital admissions of patients¹ with SARS-CoV-2 decreased by 35% and the number of new patients with SARS-CoV-2 in the ICU decreased by 29%, compared to the week before. The number of newly reported positive COVID-19 tests was also lower (-35%) last week compared to the week before that.

The reproduction number is below 1. See the Coronavirus Dashboard for graphs and information on the SARS-CoV-2 situation. Information on the SARS-CoV-2 situation in the Netherlands can also be found on the graphs page and in the epidemiological report, which is updated every week on Tuesdays.

From Saturday, 9 April 2022, no data will be published on weekends and public holidays* (days off). This is in line with the current situation regarding the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2. RIVM continues to monitor the development of the virus closely.

*Public holidays on which data will not be reported: New Year’s Day, Easter Sunday and Easter Monday, King’s Day, Liberation Day, Ascension Day, Whit Sunday and Whit Monday, Christmas Day and Boxing Day (in 2022: Saturday 1 January, Sunday 17 and Monday 18 April, Wednesday 27 April, Thursday 5 May, Thursday 26 May, Sunday 5 June and Monday 6 June, Sunday 25 and Monday 26 December).
 

19 April 2022 | 16:00

Vaccination figures 11-17 April 2022

Up to and including Sunday 17 April, more than 1.5 million repeat vaccinations had been administered. People aged 60 years and older, people living in nursing homes, and people with severely impaired immunity are eligible to get a repeat vaccination against COVID-19 three months after their last COVID-19 vaccination or three months after a SARS-CoV-2 infection. Vaccination coverage for the repeat vaccination among people over 60 has reached 32.7%.

Read more in the weekly update on COVID-19 vaccination figures.

19 April 2022 | 15:00 PM

Weekly update on the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2: 12 April to 19 april 2022

Last week, the number of new hospital admissions of patients with SARS-CoV-2¹ decreased by 53%* and the number of new patients with SARS-CoV-2 in the ICU decreased by 31%*, compared to the week before. The number of newly reported positive COVID-19 tests was also lower (-63%) last week compared to the week before that. Since last Monday, 11 April 2022, positive self-tests no longer need to be confirmed by the Municipal Public Health Services (GGDs). As a result, the number of people who get a GGD test to confirm a positive self-test will decrease. This means that the number of positive COVID-19 tests cannot be fully compared to previous weeks.

The reproduction number is below 1. See the Coronavirus Dashboard for graphs and information on the SARS-CoV-2 situation. Information on the SARS-CoV-2 situation in the Netherlands can also be found on the graphs page and in the epidemiological report, which is updated every week on Tuesdays.

From Saturday, 9 April 2022, no data will be published on weekends and public holidays* (days off). This is in line with the current situation regarding the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2. RIVM continues to monitor the development of the virus closely.

*Public holidays on which data will not be reported: New Year’s Day, Easter Sunday and Easter Monday, King’s Day, Liberation Day, Ascension Day, Whit Sunday and Whit Monday, Christmas Day and Boxing Day (in 2022: Saturday 1 January, Sunday 17 and Monday 18 April, Wednesday 27 April, Thursday 5 May, Thursday 26 May, Sunday 5 June and Monday 6 June, Sunday 25 and Monday 26 December).
 

12 April 2022 | 16:00

Repeat vaccination effective in preventing severe COVID-19

In the period from 1 February 2022 to 5 April 2022, vaccine effectiveness of the basic series of COVID-19 vaccinations in preventing hospital admission was 35%. After the booster vaccination, that percentage was 81%. Vaccine effectiveness against ICU admission was 45% after the basic series, compared to 90% after booster vaccination. 

Read the news: Repeat vaccination effective in preventing severe COVID-19

12 April 2022 | 16:00

Vaccination figures 4-10 April 2022

Up to and including Sunday 10 April, more than 1.3 million repeat vaccinations had been administered. People aged 60 years and older, people living in nursing homes, and people with severely impaired immunity are eligible to get a repeat vaccination against COVID-19 three months after their last COVID-19 vaccination or three months after a SARS-CoV-2 infection. Vaccination coverage for the repeat vaccination among people over 60 has reached 28.5%.

Read more in the weekly update on COVID-19 vaccination figures.

12 April 2022 | 15:00 PM

Weekly update on the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2:   5 April to 12 april 2022

Last week, the number of new hospital admissions of patients with SARS-CoV-2 decreased by 29%* compared to the week before, and the number of new patients with SARS-CoV-2 in the ICU decreased by 20%*. The number of newly reported positive COVID-19 tests was also lower (-48%) last week compared to the week before that. 

The reproduction number is below 1. See the Coronavirus Dashboard for graphs and information on the SARS-CoV-2 situation. Information on the SARS-CoV-2 situation in the Netherlands can also be found on the graphs page and in the epidemiological report, which is updated every week on Tuesdays.

From Saturday, 9 April 2022, no data will be published on weekends and public holidays* (days off). This is in line with the current situation regarding the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2. RIVM continues to monitor the development of the virus closely.

*Public holidays on which data will not be reported: New Year’s Day, Easter Sunday and Easter Monday, King’s Day, Liberation Day, Ascension Day, Whit Sunday and Whit Monday, Christmas Day and Boxing Day (in 2022: Saturday 1 January, Sunday 17 and Monday 18 April, Wednesday 27 April, Thursday 5 May, Thursday 26 May, Sunday 5 June and Monday 6 June, Sunday 25 and Monday 26 December).
 

5 April 2022 | 16:00

Vaccination figures: 28 March to 3 April 2022

Up to and including Sunday 3 April, more than 1 million repeat vaccinations had been administered. People aged 60 years and older, people living in nursing homes, and people with severely impaired immunity are eligible to get a repeat vaccination against COVID-19. They can get the repeat vaccination 3 months after their last COVID-19 vaccination or 3 months after a SARS-CoV-2 infection. As of this week, this report also includes vaccination coverage and the graph by age for the repeat vaccination against COVID-19. Vaccination coverage for the repeat vaccination among people over 60 has reached 22.4%.

Read more in the weekly update on COVID-19 vaccination figures. 

5 April 2022 | 15:00 PM

Weekly update on the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2:  29 March to 5 April 2022

Last week, the number of new hospital admissions of patients with SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands decreased by 32%* compared to the week before, and the number of new patients with SARS-CoV-2 in the ICU decreased by 35%*. The number of newly reported positive COVID-19 tests was also lower (-42%) last week compared to the week before that. The reproduction number is below 1. See the Coronavirus Dashboard for graphs and information on the SARS-CoV-2 situation. Information on the SARS-CoV-2 situation in the Netherlands can also be found on the graphs page and in the epidemiological report, which is updated every week on Tuesdays.

From Saturday, 9 April 2022, no data will be published on weekends and public holidays* (days off). This is in line with the current situation regarding the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2. RIVM continues to monitor the development of the virus closely.

*Public holidays on which data will not be reported: New Year’s Day, Easter Sunday and Easter Monday, King’s Day, Liberation Day, Ascension Day, Whit Sunday and Whit Monday, Christmas Day and Boxing Day (in 2022: Saturday 1 January, Sunday 17 and Monday 18 April, Wednesday 27 April, Thursday 5 May, Thursday 26 May, Sunday 5 June and Monday 6 June, Sunday 25 and Monday 26 December).
 

29 March 2022 | 16:40

Protection from COVID-19 booster remains high, but wanes slightly for everyone after 3 months

In the period from 1 February 2022 to 22 March 2022, when more than 99% of hospital admissions were caused by the Omicron variant, vaccine effectiveness of the basic series in preventing hospital admission was 45%. After the booster vaccination, that percentage was 82%. Vaccine effectiveness against ICU admission was 57% after the basic series, compared to 91% after booster vaccination. 

Read the news: Protection from COVID-19 booster remains high, but wanes slightly for everyone after 3 months

29 March 2022 | 16:15

Vaccination figures 21 to 27 March 2022

As of 4 March 2022, people aged 70 years and older, people living in nursing homes, and certain groups of people with impaired immunity can get a repeat vaccination against COVID-19. As of 26 March, this option is available to people aged 60 years and older. Up to and including Sunday 27 March, more than 725,000 repeat vaccinations had been administered.

Read more in the weekly update on COVID-19 vaccination figures.  

Weekly update on the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2:  22 to 29 March 2022

Last week, the number of new hospital admissions of patients with SARS-CoV-2 decreased by 19%* compared to the week before, and the number of new patients with SARS-CoV-2 in the ICU decreased by 9%*. The number of newly reported positive COVID-19 tests was also lower (-29%) last week compared to the week before that. The reproduction number is below 1. See the Coronavirus Dashboard for graphs and information on the SARS-CoV-2 situation. Information on the SARS-CoV-2 situation in the Netherlands can also be found on the graphs page and in the epidemiological report, which is updated every week on Tuesdays.

22 March 2022 | 16:30

Vaccination figures 14 to 20 March 2022

As of 4 March 2022, people aged 70 years and older, people living in nursing homes, and certain groups of people with impaired immunity can get a repeat vaccination against COVID-19. Up to and including Sunday 20 March, 429,000 repeat vaccinations had been administered. 

Numbers and vaccination coverage for the basic series

By Sunday 20 March 2022, it is estimated that nearly 25 million first and second vaccinations in the basic series of COVID-19 vaccinations had been administered in the Netherlands. More than 133,000 third vaccinations were administered to people with severely impaired immunity.

It is estimated that 86.4% of all people over 18 have now completed the basic series. According to estimates, 84.9% of all people over 12 years old have completed the basic series.

Read more in the weekly update on COVID-19 vaccination figures.  

22 March 2022 | 16:15 PM

Weekly update on the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2:  15 to 22 March 2022

Last week, there was a 7%* decrease in the number of new hospital admissions of patients with SARS-CoV-2. 15% more new COVID-19 patients were admitted to ICU compared to the week before*. The number of newly reported positive COVID-19 tests decreased by 27% last week compared to the week before that. Reported figures decreased in most age groups. The number of reported positive tests remained stable over the course of the week among people aged 70 years and older. However, even in that age group, the daily number of reported positive tests decreased during the week. The reproduction number is below 1.

See the Coronavirus Dashboard for graphs and information on the SARS-CoV-2 situation. Information on the SARS-CoV-2 situation in the Netherlands can also be found on the graphs page and in the epidemiological report, which is updated every week on Tuesdays. Much of the data used to keep track of the SARS-CoV-2 figures is available to the public. These open data files are published every day at 15:15.