From 6 October on, a specific group of people with severely impaired immunity (immunocompromised patients) will receive their invitation for a third vaccination against COVID-19. This involves patients who are being treated by a medical specialist for a specific health condition or are taking certain prescription medications.

People who are eligible can expect their invitation between 6 and 31 October via the hospital where they are receiving treatment. Only people with an invitation can receive a third vaccination from the Municipal Public Health Services (GGDs).

Specific group of patients

Many people with impaired immunity are sufficiently protected after receiving two COVID-19 vaccinations. However, within specific groups, there are some patients that may not be well protected against COVID-19 after two vaccinations. This has been demonstrated by recent scientific research. For that reason, a third vaccination has been recommended for these people. This group is expected to involve 200,000–400,000 patients with severely impaired immunity who are being treated by a medical specialist. See also: information for people with impaired immunity on the RIVM website.

The Minister of Health, Welfare and Sport (VWS) previously announced this decision, based on advice from RIVM and a working group of medical specialists. See also the advisory report by the Health Council of the Netherlands.