7 September 2026 | Norovirus outbreak at introductory camp

From 25 to 28 August 2026, an introductory camp of a higher education institution in Breda took place at a campsite just across the border in Belgium. Some 900 people took part in the camp. During the camp, many young people and employees suffered from nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Some participants had to be admitted to the hospital for a short time, but were able to return home quickly. The camp was immediately stopped.

In 4 sick participants stools were examined. All four were found to have norovirus. This is probably the cause of the complaints and the major outbreak. So far, no other viruses and bacteria have been found to be the cause. Norovirus is a known cause of abdominal flu and can make many people sick in a short time. GGD West-Brabant, the Belgian health services, the NVWA and the Belgian food agency are jointly investigating the source of the outbreak.

Norovirus is common in the Netherlands and is a well-known cause of stomach flu, for example in schools, healthcare institutions and holiday parks. The complaints usually go away on their own within a few days, but can be very annoying for people. To limit spread, it is important that people with complaints wash their hands well with soap and water, especially after visiting the toilet and before preparing food. Those who are ill should stay at home and limit contact with vulnerable people (such as the elderly and people with poor defenses) to the complaints about being sick.