RIVM European Reference Lab for vector-borne infections The European Commission (EC) has designated RIVM as the current European Reference Lab (EURL) for vector-borne viral pathogens.
Netherlands experiencing multiple respiratory viruses; now also flu epidemic The Netherlands is experiencing a flu epidemic. The number of people with flu (influenza) increased significantly in the past two weeks. Laboratories, hospitals and GPs throughout the country report that the flu virus has been turning up in more throat and nasal samples from people with flu-like symptoms.
Key persons should be involved in policy for pandemics RIVM advises government authorities to involve ‘key persons’ in formulating policy for current and future pandemics. Results from RIVM research show that these individuals played a key role in ensuring an ongoing focus on social well-being and mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic, despite the limitations.
RIVM launches study on coronavirus herd immunity RIVM has launched a large-scale study to investigate how many people have antibodies for the novel coronavirus (COVID-19).
Novel coronavirus found in wastewater The novel coronavirus that causes COVID-19 has been detected in wastewater in the Netherlands, according to RIVM research.
Population screening programmes temporarily on hold Due to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, the health care capacity in the Netherlands is expected to come under severe pressure in the coming period.
Additional measures novel coronavirus COVID-19 RIVM has advised the Dutch government that additional measures are needed throughout the Netherlands to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
Results of random sample test: 4% of hospital staff infected with coronavirus Nearly four per cent of the hospital staff examined in Brabant is infected with the novel coronavirus (COVID-19). A random sample test by RIVM between 6 and 9 March reveals this.
COVID-19: Advice for residents of Noord-Brabant RIVM advises residents of the province of Noord-Brabant to limit their social contacts if they have a cold, cough or a fever. This means: stay at home.
Patient with novel coronavirus deceased An 86-year-old man who was hospitalised in the Ikazia hospital Rotterdam with COVID-19 has died. The source of infection of the patient remains unknown.