Study on the effectiveness of COVID-19 measures in the Netherlands The measures implemented in the Netherlands during the COVID-19 crisis were effective against the spread of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. This is the outcome of a study conducted by RIVM.
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.
National cervical cancer screening campaign under way Today sees the kick-off of the national campaign: Let’s talk about cervical cancer – have you #done the smear test or self-test yet? This marks the first time that RIVM, Bevolkingsonderzoek Nederland and the KWF Dutch Cancer Society are launching a joint campaign to call attention to cervical cancer screening.
National Immunisation Programme: slightly more cases in 2022, but fewer than before the COVID-19 pandemic In 2022, a slightly higher number of people in the Netherlands contracted diseases covered by the National Immunisation Programme (NIP) compared to 2021. This increase is likely due to the easing of coronavirus measures, such as social distancing.
Participation rates in cancer population screening programmes continue to decline The number of participants in the population screening programmes for breast cancer, cervical cancer and colorectal cancer continues to decline. This decline has been going on for years, reaching its lowest point in 2020.
Strong interest among schools in incentive to promote healthy and sustainable eating Schools are highly interested in the promotional incentive of a programme teaching young children to eat healthy from a young age. The incentive is called ‘Let’s go outside for tasty food!’ or Lekker naar buiten! in Dutch. 2,273 schools applied for the funding over a three year period.
Metabolic disorder ALD added to newborn blood spot screening Since 1 October, the metabolic disorder adrenoleukodystrophy (ALD) has been added to the Dutch newborn blood spot screening. From now on, the blood of newborn boys will also be tested for this disorder. ALD in boys can be treated if it is detected in time.
Gastrointestinal symptoms on the rise, but still fewer than before the COVID-19 pandemic In 2022, the number of enteric infections – which mainly cause gastrointestinal symptoms – was higher than it was in the previous two years. However, the total number of infections was still lower than before the coronavirus pandemic.
Self-sampling device to be sent automatically, making it easier to take part in cervical cancer screening From the first week of July, every woman turning 30 will receive a self-sampling device with their invitation for cervical cancer screening. Participants can use this device to collect their own vaginal material.
Concerns over falling vaccination coverage within National Immunisation Programme The percentage of children vaccinated within the National Immunisation Programme (NIP) has fallen for the second year in a row, according to the 2022 report ‘Vaccination Coverage and Annual Report of the Dutch National Immunisation Programme'. RIVM is concerned about this decline.