RIVM method helps permit issuers assess mixtures of SVHCs RIVM has developed a method to assess the extent to which mixtures of Substances of Very High Concern harm the environment. Environmental services and other permit issuers can use the method and the maps to determine whether they should issue a permit.
Many serious cases of whooping cough among newborn babies in the Netherlands The number of newborn babies in the Netherlands who are seriously ill due to whooping cough has been increasingly rapidly in recent weeks. About 110 confirmed cases of whooping cough are now being diagnosed every week among children in the Netherlands, including nearly 20 infants.
Start of rotavirus vaccinations This week saw the start of babies being vaccinated against the rotavirus. This vaccination is included in the Dutch National Immunisation Programme as of this year. All parents of babies born on or after 1 January 2024 will receive an invitation for this.
RIVM makes recommendations for assessment of natural, alternative plant protection products Plant protection products are used to protect crops against disease and pests. These products may only be used if they have no adverse effect on humans and the environment. To ensure this, they are tested and assessed extensively. New plant protection products are currently being developed on the basis of double-stranded RNA.
Pneumonia increase likely caused by multiple viruses and bacteria More patients with pneumonia visited their GP from August 2023 on than in previous years. The rise in cases of pneumonia among children, adolescents and young adults aged 5–25 years is particularly notable.
More attention needed for the use of Substances of Very High Concern in the storage and transport of hydrogen Hydrogen is a sustainable energy source that could play an important role in the energy transition. Hydrogen can be transported and stored using liquid hydrogen carriers. As highlighted in a study performed by the National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), these chemicals can be – or can form – Substances of Very High Concern (SVHC, in Dutch ‘ZZS’).
Flu vaccine campaign about to start In October, many people will receive a new invitation to get the flu vaccine. The flu vaccine protects people who, because of their age or medical condition, are more likely to become ill or seriously ill from flu.
Improper use of methylphenidate Students sometimes use ADHD medicines that have not been prescribed to them in order to study more effectively. It is suspected that they obtain these medicines from other people, who do have a prescription. Sewage research conducted by RIVM supports this theory.
Annoyance and sleep disturbance caused by vibrations from trains The Dutch railway network is one of the busiest in Europe – and it is expected to become even busier. Vibrations from trains can cause severe annoyance and severe sleep disturbance for people who live up to 300 metres away.
Direct link between Tata Steel emissions, nuisance and risk of disease The current level of emissions from the Tata Steel site is putting people who live in the IJmond region at an elevated risk of disease. The greatest benefits to public health in the region can be achieved by reducing nuisance caused by and exposure to Tata Steel emissions. This is the outcome of a study conducted by RIVM.